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Kaymaklı Underground City is a fascinating historical site in Cappadocia, Turkey. It is an ancient network of tunnels and rooms built to protect people during invasions. This underground city has multiple levels, including living spaces, storage rooms, kitchens, and even a church. People once lived here for safety, hiding from enemies. Today, visitors can walk through its narrow tunnels and explore its unique history. It is one of the largest and most well-preserved underground cities in the region.
Location
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
Kaymakli Underground City lies in the Cappadocia Nevşehir Province of Turkey. It has been excavated out of soft volcanic rock and thus is a masterpiece of engineering. The city lies about 19 km to the south of Nevşehir and hence is highly accessible from major towns of the region. The city’s strategic position provides insight into past civilizations while permitting people to go through the incredible scenery of Cappadocia.
How To Reach
Photo: Ray Swi-hymn / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Tourists may hire a private car or take a car rental from Nevşehir to Kaymakli. The journey provides good views of
the landscapes of Cappadocia.
By Tour: Numerous tour agencies in Cappadocia offer guided excursions, with transportation, to Kaymakli Underground City.
By Public Transport: Dolmuş (minibuses) travel frequently from Nevşehir to Kaymakli which is a cost-effective way for tourists.
Things To Do
Here are the best things to do here in this underground city:
1. Explore The Underground Chambers
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
There are several levels within Kaymakli Underground City and every chamber has a function. Ancient inhabitants’ storage rooms, ventilation shafts and communal kitchens can be visited by the visitors. It features advanced engineering techniques and an intricate tunnel system. It is recommended to take a guided tour to appreciate the city‘s historical and cultural significance. Moving through these ancient oh-kayages brings back the age.
2. Learn About Ancient Civilizations
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
The Kaymakli Underground City offers interesting facts about how it was used to live underground for protection by ancient civilizations. It was built during The Hittite period and further extended by early Christians. People were left to learn for months how to survive in these underground dwellings. The visit is also interesting learning about their defensive strategies, food storage methods and their ventilation systems.
3. Capture Stunning Photos
Photo: MusikAnimal / Wikimedia Commons
Kaymakli would be amazing for photography enthusiasts to then capture the unique rock formations and tunnels. The presence of dramatic shots is due to the play of light and shadows in the underground city. To get the best photos, take advantage of the wide angle of the tunnels. Take care with the site, do not use flash in sensitive areas.
Places To Visit Near Kaymakli Underground City
Here are the best places to visit near Kaymakli Underground City to elevate the experiences during the trip:
1. Derinkuyu Underground City
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
Derinkuyu Underground City is another beautiful underground complex, only 10 km away from Kaymakli. It is Cappadocia’s deepest underground city, going as deep as about 60 meters. It is open for people to see its complex system of tunnels, storage rooms, stables, and even a church. Visiting Derinkuyu is an absolute must for those looking to uncover the wonders of Cappadocia’s underground world.
Distance From Kaymakli: 10 km
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
2. Uchisar Castle
Photo: Wolfgang Moroder / Wikimedia Commons
The castle in Uchisar is the symbolic centrepiece of Cappadocia. It serves as the summit of the region with dramatic outlooks across fairy chimneys and valleys all around it. The castle is sculpted out of a huge rock outcrop and was traditionally employed as a watchtower. People can ascend to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views, and it is a favourite destination for photographers. Uchisar Castle offers a wonderful cultural and historical experience for tourists.
Distance From Kaymakli: 20 km
Best Time To Visit: Sunset
3. Göreme Open – Air Museum
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Göreme Open – Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It features a cluster of rock-cut churches that bear exquisite frescoes from the Byzantine period. The museum takes one on an in-depth excursion into the profound Christian history of Cappadocia. Tourists can stroll through chapels, monasteries, and ancient houses hollowed out from the soft volcanic rock. All art lovers, history buffs and enthusiasts of religious heritage need to see this place.
Distance From Kaymakli: 25 km
Best Time To Visit: Morning for fewer crowds
Where To Stay
Photo: Knslmn / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are many types of accommodation in Cappadocia ranging from backpacker hostels to vice royal cave hotels. The Cappadocia Cave Suites are one of the best options to stay in Kaymakli. They offer a unique chance to stay without losing the traditional cave dwelling experience. Mithra Cave Hotel is another great option that offers breathtaking views of the region’s famous hot air balloons.
Where To Eat
Photo: John Robert McPherson / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are plenty of dining choices nearby Kaymakli Underground City and excellent Turkish cuisine is served. To enjoy an authentic meal, visit Seten Restaurant which is very popular for its traditional Cappadocian dishes. An alternative that is also great is Dibek Restaurant which offers pottery kebabs and other local delicacies. Café Şafak in Göreme, particularly if you are in search of a quick bite, is a good place to stop by to try Turkish tea and homemade pastries.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Nevit Dilmen / Wikimedia Commons
During spring (April to June), or autumn (September to November) would be the best time to visit this city. There is mild weather which is cool enough for you to explore the underground tunnels. It’s best to visit at least early mornings or late afternoons when there aren’t a lot of people and therefore, you can enjoy how fully historical it is.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Ray Swi-hymn / Wikimedia Commons
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because the tunnels are uneven.
- Take a flashlight to help you navigate the darker areas.
- Go early in the morning to avoid large crowds.
- Get a local guide to further enhance your experience.
- Drink plenty of water and bring your water bottle with you.
Kaymakli Underground City is a fascinating history that can be brought about by taking the visiting people through the doors. Cappadocia’s vast network of tunnels, its rich cultural significance, and its spectacular underground architecture all add up to a big must-see in Cappadocia. Plan your trip with TripXL to explore this fascinating site. Uncover the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
Cover Photo: MusikAnimal / Wikimedia Commons
