Derinkuyu: The Underground City 🏰🕳️
For children aged 8 to 80
Shariq Ali
Valueversity
In the beautiful region of Cappadocia, Turkey, there lies a mysterious city that is counted among the wonders of the world. It is called Derinkuyu — a complete underground city that was used for centuries to protect the lives of people and their animals during difficult times.
This city was discovered in 1963 when a local man broke down a rear wall of his home to expand it — and suddenly, a hidden room appeared behind it!
But that was just the beginning!
Behind that wall was an entire underground world — an astonishing city spread across many levels.
A Marvel of Underground Living 🧱🏡
Derinkuyu reaches a depth of about 60 meters, equivalent to a tall building. It had 18 levels, out of which eight are now open to tourists.
The city had kitchens, storage rooms, schools, places of worship, wine cellars, stables, and even a morgue.
All of this was arranged in such a way that people could live here for months — in silence, secrecy, and safety.
Amazing Air and Water Systems 🌬️💧
You might wonder — how did people breathe underground?
Well, Derinkuyu had more than 50 ventilation shafts. The longest one was 55 meters deep, delivering fresh air all the way down.
Similarly, wells were dug for water — some of which were carefully designed not to connect with the surface, so enemies couldn’t poison them.
Even modern engineers are amazed by this level of planning!
Defense Against Invaders 🪨🚪🛡️
Each level of the city had heavy round stone doors that could only be opened or closed from the inside.
Even if enemies tried to enter, these doors would block their path like a strong wall.
Every element of the city was designed with protection, secrecy, and survival in mind.
Secret Passages and Tunnels 🕳️➡️🕳️
Derinkuyu wasn’t just a single city — it was also connected through tunnels to other underground cities.
One of the most famous among them is Kaymakli.
These tunnels were used for secret movements and emergency escape routes in times of danger.
A Religious Refuge 🛐
For centuries, when Christian communities were persecuted, this underground city became a safe haven for them.
They worshipped, studied, and preserved their culture here — all in hiding.
It became a fortress of peace for them.
A Monument to Human Intelligence, Art, and Courage 🧠🎓✨
Derinkuyu is not just an underground structure — it is a living symbol of ancient wisdom, craftsmanship, patience, and collective intelligence.
Today, when we walk through this city, we don’t just see old ruins —
We witness living history that teaches us:
When human will is strong, we can build entire worlds — even beneath the earth.
A Thought to Ponder ❓
If you had the chance, would you like to spend a few days in a city like Derinkuyu?
Do you think such hidden shelters are still needed in today’s world?
Share your thoughts in the comments! ✍️