Derinkuyu Underground City: The Deepest Mystery of Cappadocia
Explore the vast, ancient city carved deep beneath the earth in Nevşehir’s heart.

Hidden beneath the quiet town of Derinkuyu in the province of Nevşehir, in the heart of Cappadocia, lies one of the most astonishing marvels of human engineering—Derinkuyu Underground City. With its intricate tunnels, air shafts, communal rooms, and chapels descending up to 85 meters below the surface, this subterranean city is the deepest and one of the most extensive underground settlements discovered in the world.

Believed to have been first excavated by the Phrygians in the 8th–7th centuries BCE and later expanded by early Christians fleeing Roman persecution, Derinkuyu was not just a temporary shelter but a fully functioning underground complex. At its peak, it could accommodate up to 20,000 people along with their livestock, food stores, and belongings. The city was equipped with everything necessary for long-term habitation: wineries, stables, kitchens, classrooms, a church, and even a missionary school.

The most remarkable aspect of Derinkuyu is its engineering. Ventilation shafts ensure fresh air reaches every level, while massive stone doors could be rolled across corridors to seal off parts of the city from invaders. Today, visitors can descend through carefully restored passages that lead through about 8 open levels (out of the estimated 18 total), getting a glimpse of the lives once lived underground.

History and Purpose

The true origins of Derinkuyu remain debated. Some suggest its earliest levels may date back to Hittite times, while others attribute it to the Phrygians or Persians. Regardless, it was the early Byzantine Christians who transformed the underground chambers into safe havens during Arab raids in the 7th century. By tunneling deeper and connecting with nearby cities like Kaymaklı via underground corridors (up to 9 km long), Derinkuyu became part of a vast subterranean network throughout Cappadocia.

These underground cities were a response to persistent threats and offered unmatched protection. Narrow, steep staircases made attacks difficult, while hidden entrances concealed the cities entirely. Over centuries, Derinkuyu was gradually forgotten and rediscovered only in 1963 when a local resident found a hidden room behind a wall in his basement.

What to See Today

A visit to Derinkuyu is a thrilling experience for history lovers and adventurers alike. As you descend through the tight tunnels, you’ll pass by:

• The Missionary School: A large vaulted hall believed to be used for teaching.

• The Baptismal Chamber and Church: Religious centers deep underground.

• Air Shafts: The largest is 55 meters deep and doubles as a well.

• Living Quarters and Storage Rooms: See how families lived, cooked, and survived.

• Massive Stone Doors: Still in place, these were used to block off sections of the city during attacks.

Although only a portion is open to visitors, the available sections are well-lit and clearly marked. However, due to tight spaces and steep passages, it may not be suitable for visitors with claustrophobia or mobility issues.

How to Get There

Derinkuyu Underground City is located approximately 30 km south of Nevşehir city center. You can reach it by:

• Car: A 30-40 minute drive from Nevşehir. Free parking is available nearby.

• Public Transport: Buses run regularly from Nevşehir to Derinkuyu town.

• Tours: Many Cappadocia-based tours include Derinkuyu in their itinerary.

Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the Ihlara Valley or Kaymaklı Underground City for a full day of historical exploration.

Best Time to Visit

Derinkuyu is open year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Mornings are ideal for avoiding tour group rushes.