Tucked away beneath the rolling landscapes of Cappadocia lies a marvel of ancient engineering and mystery—the Kaymaklı Underground City. More than just a historic site, it’s a window into a world that existed hundreds of years ago, hidden under the earth’s surface. If you’re fascinated by architecture, history, or crave a truly unique travel experience, Kaymaklı is calling your name.
In this guide, we’ll take you through what makes Kaymaklı Underground City one of Cappadocia’s greatest treasures, explore its fascinating history, and provide practical tips to make the most of your visit.
What is Kaymaklı Underground City?
An Underground Marvel Steeped in History
Kaymaklı Underground City, located in the region of Nevşehir in Turkey’s enchanting Cappadocia, is one of the largest and most well-preserved underground settlements in the world. Constructed over 2,000 years ago and expanded throughout the centuries, this subterranean wonder served as a sanctuary for thousands of people.
These multilevel complexes weren’t just living spaces—they included storage areas, kitchens, stables, wine cellars, ventilation shafts, and even places of worship. During times of crisis, such as invasions or natural disasters, entire communities lived, worked, and thrived below ground. The city extends eight levels deep, although only four are accessible to visitors today.
How Was it Built?
The city was carved out of soft volcanic rock known as “tuff,” abundant in the Cappadocia region. This material was easy to excavate yet sturdy enough to create an expansive and enduring underground dwelling system. To protect its inhabitants, the city was ingeniously designed with narrow tunnels, heavy rolling stone doors, and booby traps, making it difficult for invaders to penetrate.
Why is Kaymaklı Underground City a Must-Visit?
Immerse Yourself in Unique Architecture
Walking through Kaymaklı Underground City is like stepping into a labyrinth of history and ingenuity. Its twisty passages and cleverly constructed rooms tell the story of an ancient people determined to survive at all costs. The unique layout of the city highlights the community’s resourcefulness, blending functionality with thoughtful design.
A Portal to the Past
Exploring this city brings history to life in a way few places can. Imagine the families who lived here, storing grains in amphoras or gathering in the dimly lit communal areas. This is not just a place—it’s a story, etched into the walls for modern explorers to uncover.
A Photographer’s Dream
Cappadocia is famously photogenic, with its fairy chimneys and stunning valleys dotting the landscape. Kaymaklı adds a distinct twist to this natural beauty. Whether it’s dimly lit tunnels or perfectly symmetrical stone arches, the underground city offers countless opportunities for Instagram-worthy shots.
Top Experiences at Kaymaklı Underground City
1. Exploring the Living Quarters
Walk through the winding corridors and discover the rooms once used for sleeping, cooking, and gathering. Visualize the lives of the inhabitants and how they found normalcy underground.
2. Visiting the Communal Spaces
Kaymaklı boasts fascinating communal areas, including wineries, kitchens, and even chapels. These rooms embody functionality, as they were carefully designed to support a large community. Don’t miss the ventilation shafts—an architectural marvel designed for airflow and sustainability.
3. Understanding the Defense Systems
The city’s strategic rolling stone doors were essential for its defense. These impenetrable doors could be sealed from the inside, making Kaymaklı a fortress-city during emergencies.
4. Taking a Guide-Led Tour
While the city is impressive on its own, doing a guided tour will give you deeper insight into its history. Guides often share stories and details that are easy to miss on a solo visit.
Planning Your Visit to Kaymaklı Underground City
How to Get There
Kaymaklı Underground City is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the town of Nevşehir, making it an easy day trip. You can hire a taxi, join a tour group, or rent a car to get there.
Opening Hours and Fees
The city is open to visitors year-round, with hours varying slightly depending on the season. Entrance fees are generally affordable and include optional access to guides who can enrich your exploration experience.
What to Wear
The underground city is cool year-round, so bring a light jacket, even in summer. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are crucial as the floors can be uneven and slightly slippery.
Tips for Visitors
- No Claustrophobia? While spacious in parts, some areas of Kaymaklı can feel tight. It’s worth considering this if you’re prone to claustrophobia.
- Bring a Flashlight – While the tunnels are well-lit, having extra light can help you explore dim corners or check out intricate details.
Explore More in Cappadocia
No trip to Cappadocia is complete without seeing more of its many wonders:
- Derinkuyu Underground City – The deeper cousin to Kaymaklı.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides – Experience Cappadocia’s iconic landscape from above.
- Göreme Open Air Museum – A UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient churches carved from rock.
Each site weaves together a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking beauty, making Cappadocia a bucket-list destination.
Why Kaymaklı Should Be on Your Travel Itinerary
Visiting the Kaymaklı Underground City is more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive experience that connects you to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who once lived there. From its ancient defense systems to its architectural wonders, every aspect of Kaymaklı tells a story worth hearing.
If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, make Kaymaklı part of your adventure. This hidden wonder promises to be an unforgettable chapter in your travel story.