Exploring Kaymaklı Underground City: A Fascinating Cappadocia Wonder
In the magical landscape of Cappadocia lies a silent world that carries the traces of the past into the present: this ancient underground city in Kaymaklı has been a refuge where people have hidden, lived and survived for centuries. This impressive structure, skilfully carved into natural rock formations, is a must-see for visitors to the region. As you descend deeper, you encounter not only stone walls but also thousands of years of history. If you want your Cappadocia journey to be intertwined not only with landscapes but also with history, the Kaymaklı Underground City awaits you.
Kaymaklı Underground City: The Mysterious and Historical Depths of Cappadocia
Cappadocia is known as one of the most fascinating natural and historical regions in the world. In addition to its fairy chimneys, valleys and unique natural formations, underground cities are of great importance for those who want to deeply understand the history and culture of the region. The most notable and frequently visited of these underground cities is undoubtedly the Kaymaklı Underground City. Kaymaklı is not only one of Cappadocia's but also one of Turkey's most important archaeological treasures. Here, you can uncover the mysterious pages of history among structures carved metres below the ground and discover the traces of civilisations that lived thousands of years ago.
The Historical and Cultural Importance of Kaymaklı Underground City
The history of Kaymaklı Underground City dates back to 3000 BC, parallel to the rich and multi-layered past of the Cappadocia region. Carving activities, which began during the Hittite period, were greatly expanded during the Roman and Byzantine periods, reaching their current size. The softness of the tuff rocks made it easy to construct these structures. Kaymaklı Underground City was built for defensive purposes and designed to provide a safe place for people to hide from external attacks.
This massive underground city, planned to have a total of eight floors, is large enough to accommodate approximately 5,000 people. However, only four floors are currently open to visitors. Kaymaklı not only contains living areas but also churches, cellars, stables, kitchens, air shafts, and defence mechanisms. Throughout history, it has been used to protect against attacks by various civilisations, particularly serving as a refuge for Christians during the Byzantine period. From this perspective, Kaymaklı is not only an architectural marvel but also a cultural and historical heritage site.
Who lived in Kaymaklı Underground City?
Kaymaklı Underground City has been home to different civilisations throughout its long history, spanning from the Hittites to the Roman and Byzantine periods. The Hittites were the first to strike the ground here and begin building the city. Later, during the Roman Empire's presence in the region, the underground city was greatly expanded for defensive purposes.
Especially during the Byzantine period, when Christianity began to spread, Kaymaklı Underground City gained vital importance. Christian communities hid in these underground cities to escape religious persecution by the Roman Empire and performed their worship here. The presence of churches and places of worship in the underground cities also confirms this historical process. Thus, Kaymaklı served not only as a defensive point but also as a sacred place where beliefs were kept alive.
Kaymaklı Underground City Entrance Fee and Visiting Conditions
As of 2025, the entrance fee to Kaymaklı Underground City has been set at 13 Euros for adults. Museum cardholders may be eligible for various benefits and discounts. Additionally, visitors to the area have the opportunity to learn about the history of the underground city in a much more detailed and impressive way through guided tours.
Many improvements have been made for visitors, such as safety measures, lighting and signposts, to make it easy for everyone to explore the historical sites. As underground cities have narrow and sometimes sloping passages, visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
How many Floors Does Kaymaklı Underground City have?
Kaymaklı Underground City consists of a total of 8 floors. However, only the first 4 floors are open to visitors today. On these floors, you can see many different details about people's lives throughout history. Kitchens, wine cellars, animal pens, water wells, and places of worship are located on these floors. Additionally, thanks to the wide air channels, air circulation underground was ensured, making it possible for those living in the city to stay there for extended periods.
The rooms in the underground city are connected by corridors, and narrow doors and stone bolts used for defence purposes were installed to protect against external attacks. This made it very difficult for enemies to enter. These architectural features reveal how well-planned and strategic Kaymaklı is as an underground city.
Kaymaklı or Derinkuyu? Cappadocia's Two Giant Underground Cities
Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu, Cappadocia's two most famous underground cities, have played important roles in the defence of the region throughout history. Derinkuyu Underground City is known for extending much deeper into the ground and is Cappadocia's deepest underground city, with levels reaching up to approximately 20 floors. Kaymaklı, on the other hand, stands out for its more spacious living areas and organised structure.
Both underground cities are connected by underground tunnels, which have made defence and escape strategies more effective. For visitors, which one is larger or more impressive depends entirely on experience and expectations; Derinkuyu impresses with its depth, while Kaymaklı captivates with its spacious and airy living areas. Both cities are must-see destinations on your Cappadocia tour.
Is Kaymaklı Underground City Worth Seeing?
Absolutely! Kaymaklı Underground City is a must-see destination not only for history and archaeology enthusiasts but also for anyone interested in cultural tourism. As you walk through the city's corridors, you feel as if you are travelling back thousands of years in time. Every corner of Kaymaklı tells a different story, making it one of the most enchanting spots in Cappadocia with its historical atmosphere, unique architecture, and natural landscape.
With its secret passages, ventilation systems, living areas, and defence mechanisms, Kaymaklı is a tangible proof of humanity's engineering and survival skills throughout history. Additionally, most visitors to the region describe this unique experience as one of the most memorable moments of their lives.
Where is Kaymaklı Underground City and How to Get There?
Kaymaklı Underground City is located in the town of Kaymaklı, within the borders of Nevşehir province. This underground city, located approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre of Nevşehir, is quite easy to reach. Those travelling by private vehicle can reach the area in a short time by following the signs from Nevşehir to Kaymaklı.
Additionally, many tour programmes organised in the Cappadocia region include Kaymaklı Underground City in their itinerary. Through these tours, you can explore the underground city with a guide and easily visit other tourist attractions in the region.
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