In the rugged landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey, lies a hidden marvel that defies the imagination. Derinkuyu, an underground city that once sheltered nearly 20,000 residents, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resilience.
Originally used for the storage of goods, Derinkuyu’s primary purpose evolved into a temporary haven from foreign invaders. Throughout the centuries, the city saw a constant flux of dominant empires, including the Phrygians, Persians, and Seljuks. However, it was during the 7th-Century Islamic raids on the predominantly Christian Byzantine Empire that the dwellings were used to their fullest.
A Journey Underground: As one descends into the musty, narrow tunnels, blackened with soot from centuries of torch lighting, the sensation of claustrophobia may begin to set in. But the brilliance of the design soon becomes apparent.
Intentionally narrow and short hallways force visitors to navigate the labyrinth of corridors and dwellings while stooped over and single file—an inopportune position for intruders. Dimly lit by lamplight, half-ton circular boulders block doors between each of the 18 levels, only movable from the inside. Small, perfectly round holes in these hefty doors would have allowed residents to spear invaders while maintaining a secure perimeter.
Life Beneath the Surface: “Life underground was probably very difficult,” explains a guide. The residents relieved themselves in sealed clay jars, lived by torchlight, and disposed of dead bodies in designated areas.
Each level of the city was meticulously engineered for specific uses:
- Stables: Located nearest to the surface to reduce smell and toxic gases.
- Dwellings, Cellars, Schools, and Meeting Spaces: Occupied the inner layers.
- Traditional Byzantine Missionary School: Identified by unique barrel-vaulted ceilings.
- Wine-making Facilities: Indicated by the presence of cellars, vats for pressing, and amphoras.
These specialized rooms reveal that the inhabitants of Derinkuyu were prepared to spend months beneath the surface, crafting a life of complexity and purpose in the shadows.
A Legacy of Survival: Derinkuyu’s population swelled to its peak during the Byzantine Era, and today, the harrowing reality of life underground can be experienced for just 60 Turkish lira (£2.80).
The city stands as a silent witness to the succession of empires and their impact on the landscapes of Anatolia. It is a place where history whispers through the dark corridors, telling tales of survival, innovation, and the unbreakable human spirit.
Citation: “Turkey’s underground city of 20,000 people.” BBC Travel. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20220810-derinkuyu-turkeys-underground-city-of-20000-people
Ruins and Relics 