Kaymakli Underground City: Exploring Cappadocia’s Hidden Gem
Discovering the History of Kaymakli Underground City
Kaymakli Underground City is a remarkable historical site located in the enchanting region of Cappadocia. This underground city attracts approximately one million visitors each year, and it’s not hard to see why. Built by Early Christians as a refuge from persecution, this underground complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of the people of that time.
A Sanctuary from Persecution
The city’s construction was motivated by the need to protect the Christian community from the brutal persecution of Roman soldiers, who only recognized Paganism as the official religion. The Christians of Cappadocia found solace in living underground, as it provided them with safety and shelter from the soldiers’ attacks.
A Testament to Ingenuity and Design
Kaymakli Underground City stands out among the 34 underground cities in the area due to its impressive organization and design. It is a vast labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, and visitors can easily get lost in its intricate layout. The city features multiple levels, each serving specific purposes. It boasts living areas, sleeping quarters, stables, kitchens, storage sections, churches, and even graveyards. The underground city was meticulously planned to accommodate the needs of its inhabitants.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985, Kaymakli Underground City has been open to the public since 1964. So far, levels 1 to 4 have been excavated, offering visitors a glimpse into the fascinating underground world. The ventilation system of the city is particularly noteworthy, as it ensured that every room had access to fresh air through well-placed air shafts on each level. With 18 separate vents, the underground city’s residents enjoyed a steady supply of oxygen in this 60-meter-deep subterranean marvel.
How to Visit Kaymakli Underground City
To visit Kaymakli Underground City, you can take public buses from the Goreme bus station. The journey involves traveling to Nevsehir city center and then taking a bus to Kaymakli town, which is approximately 30 km away from Goreme. The trip takes around an hour by public transportation. If you are staying in Urgup, Avanos, or Uchisar, you will need to make your way to Nevsehir city center to find buses to Kaymakli. The admission fee for the underground city is 250 Turkish lira per person, and the GPS coordinates are 38°27’36.8″N 34°45’07.2″E.
Explore with TurkeyGuideTour.com
At TurkiyeGuideTour.com, we offer Private Kaymakli Underground City Tours to provide an in-depth exploration of this captivating site. Our tours include a professionally licensed English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and transportation. Additionally, we organize Small Group Highlights of Cappadocia Tour and Cappadocia Delight Tour, both of which include a visit to Kaymakli Underground City.
It’s important to note that Tigon Travel also conducts tours to Kaymakli Underground City, providing visitors with an immersive experience and valuable insights into the history and significance of this ancient underground complex. For more information and to book your tour, visit www.turkeyguidetour.com. Explore the wonders of Kaymakli Underground City with our expert guides who will bring the history and stories of this hidden gem to life.
When you join our Private Kaymakli Underground City Tour, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deep into the underground passages, marvel at the architectural marvels, and learn about the daily life of the early Christians who sought refuge in this subterranean world.
For those looking for a comprehensive Cappadocia experience, our Small Group Highlights of Cappadocia Tour and Cappadocia Delight Tour are perfect choices. These tours combine visits to other notable attractions in the region, such as the Goreme Open Air Museum, fairy chimneys, and ancient rock-cut churches, with a visit to Kaymakli Underground City.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the hidden depths of Cappadocia’s history. Contact us today to book your Kaymakli Underground City tour and embark on an unforgettable journey through time and culture.
