Exploring Cappadocia Underground Cities: Derinkuyu vs. Kaymaklı
While the fairy chimneys and hot air balloons dominate the skyline, some of Cappadocia’s most mind-blowing historical secrets are hidden deep beneath the earth. As an archaeologist, I always tell my guests that to truly understand the survival ingenuity of early Anatolians, you must go underground.
The region is heavily honeycombed with subterranean networks, but the two largest and most famous are Derinkuyu and Kaymaklı. If you are wondering which one to visit during your trip, here is a local guide’s breakdown of these magnificent underground fortresses.
1. The Purpose of the Underground Cities Carved into the soft volcanic tuff, these cities were not meant for everyday living. They were massive, temporary shelters used by early Christians to hide from invading armies. Equipped with heavy stone rolling doors, ventilation shafts, wineries, churches, and livestock pens, these cities could sustain thousands of people for months at a time without anyone ever surfacing.
2. Kaymaklı: Wider and Highly Interactive Kaymaklı Underground City is often considered the more “user-friendly” option. Although it has eight levels, only four are open to the public. Kaymaklı spreads out more horizontally, meaning the tunnels are slightly wider and the ceilings are a bit higher compared to Derinkuyu. It is an excellent choice for families with children or visitors who might feel mildly claustrophobic but still want to experience this historical marvel.
3. Derinkuyu: Deep, Narrow, and Adventurous Derinkuyu is the deepest excavated underground city in Cappadocia, reaching depths of approximately 85 meters (280 feet) across eight accessible levels. Navigating Derinkuyu requires walking down long, narrow, and steep staircases. It features unique rooms like a spacious cruciform church and a large missionary school on the upper levels. If you are physically fit and looking for a true Indiana Jones-style adventure, Derinkuyu is unforgettable.
4. Which One Should You Choose? If you want an easier walk with more spacious rooms to explore how daily life functioned, choose Kaymaklı. If you want to experience the sheer scale of ancient engineering and do not mind crouching through narrow, deep tunnels, head to Derinkuyu.
5. A Local Archaeologist’s Tips for Visiting
- Arrive Early: Both cities are massive stops for large tour buses. To avoid traffic jams in narrow tunnels, visit right at opening time (8:00 AM).
- Dress Appropriately: No matter how hot it is outside in the summer, the underground cities remain at a constant, cool 13°C to 15°C (55°F – 59°F). Bring a light jacket.
- Go with a Guide: There are very few informational signs underground. Exploring these maze-like tunnels with a licensed guide ensures you do not get lost and allows you to hear the fascinating historical context behind every stone door and air shaft.
