Explore the ancient underground city that once served as a refuge for 20,000 people.

If you've ever wondered about the fantastical tales of a subterranean world, a visit to Derinkuyu City in Turkey will provide you with the answer, as it truly is a unique labyrinth.

Discover Turkey: Delve into the ancient subterranean city that once sheltered 20,000 people.

Derinkuyu City consists of 18 intricately structured levels, located in the heart of Cappadocia, central Turkey. It lies over 60m below ground and was home to approximately 20,000 inhabitants.

Dating back over 2,000 years, Derinkuyu is one of the largest and deepest cities in the world.

The discovery of Derinkuyu City is akin to a fairy tale come true.

In 1963, during home renovations, a man stumbled upon a hidden room behind a basement wall.

Intrigued, he ventured in and was astonished to be led through vast, intricate tunnels akin to a maze.

This discovery sparked immense surprise among the public and archaeological community.

Archaeologists estimate that the underground city was created between the 7th and 8th centuries BCE by the Phrygians.

Derinkuyu gradually expanded, becoming a thriving city with functional homes. The underground chambers served not only to store food and livestock but also as hiding places for the populace against invading forces.

Cross-sections reveal the complexity and scale of Derinkuyu City.

The city is equipped with fully stocked kitchens, spacious dining areas, bedrooms, prayer rooms, meeting halls, classrooms, and wine cellars.

Above the city, there are numerous rock-cut openings of varying sizes.

These openings serve dual functions: providing ventilation and natural light, as well as serving as escape routes for residents or barriers against invading forces.

Deep within the city, residents dug wells tens of meters deep to access water for daily use.

Currently, tourists can visit this underground city in Turkey, but are only permitted to observe certain areas including wells, ventilation shafts, assembly halls, kitchens, residential areas, and prisoner quarters.

Other areas are closed off to visitors for the preservation and safety of the site.

When embarking on a trip to Turkey, besides exploring the underground city of Derinkuyu in Cappadocia, tourists are often amazed by the vast, spectacular, and unique geological landscape.

Riding in a hot air balloon and admiring the 'mushroom city' below is a favorite activity among many tourists when visiting Cappadocia.

According to Minh Hai/Tuoi Tre Newspaper.

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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook