Kaymakli Underground City: A Journey Beneath Cappadocia

The Kaymakli Underground City, a labyrinthine marvel, stretches beneath the surface, beckoning those brave enough to delve into its depths.

Cappadocia, famed for its otherworldly rock formations and mesmerizing hot air balloon rides, hides a secret world beneath its surface. The Kaymakli Underground City is a testament to the region's rich history and the unparalleled engineering prowess of its ancient inhabitants.

As you descend into the Kaymakli Underground City, you'll be greeted by a maze of tunnels and rooms, each echoing stories from the past.

What to Expect from Your Kaymakli Underground City Visit?

Kaymakli Underground City is one of Cappadocia, Turkey's largest and most famous underground cities. Early Christians used these underground cities as hiding places to escape persecution. Here's what you can expect when visiting Kaymakli Underground City:

• Entrance and orientation: Upon arrival, you'll find a main entrance where you'll buy tickets and sometimes can hire a local guide. A guide might be beneficial if you wish to understand the historical context and navigate the complex maze of tunnels and chambers.
• Depth and size: The city extends several floors below ground, but not all are open to the public. As you venture deeper into the city, the temperature drops, and the passages can become more confined.
• Labyrinthine tunnels: As you wander through the city, you'll navigate a complex network of tunnels, chambers, and staircases. The tunnels can be narrow and low, so be prepared to crouch or crawl in some parts.
• Rooms and facilities: You'll encounter various rooms and spaces that serve different purposes, from living areas and kitchens to storage areas, wine cellars, and stables. Look out for ventilation shafts, which are essential to provide the inhabitants with air.
• Safety: The pathways are generally well-lit and maintained, but comfortable shoes with a good grip are always good. If you're claustrophobic or uncomfortable in confined spaces, you may want to stay close to the exits or reconsider visiting.
• Historical context: The underground city wasn't just a dwelling but a refuge. You can also find hidden niches and escape tunnels used in emergencies.
• Cultural and religious significance: You'll see evidence of the early Christian communities that inhabited the space. There are chapels, baptismal fonts, and other religious artifacts.
• Cool temperatures: The underground nature of the city means it remains cool, which can be a relief during the hot summers of Cappadocia but might require an extra layer during cooler months.
• Tourist amenities: Near the entrance and exit, you might find shops selling local crafts, snacks, and refreshments.
• Duration: A visit can last 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest level. If you're hiring a guide or are part of a tour group, it might be more structured in time.
• Accessibility: While the main areas are accessible to most visitors, some tighter spaces and deeper levels might not suit everyone, particularly those with mobility issues.
• Preservation: It's essential to be respectful during your visit. Touching walls or artifacts can lead to deterioration. Always follow any posted guidelines or instructions from guides.

Visiting Kaymakli Underground City is an exploration of a historical site and an immersion into the resilient spirit of the ancient communities that sought refuge there. To make the most of your visit, reading up on the region's history beforehand or hiring a knowledgeable guide can significantly enhance your experience.

What's Inside Kaymakli Underground City?

Kaymakli Underground City is one of the largest and most famous underground cities in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. These cities were carved out of the soft volcanic rock by ancient civilizations, primarily the Phrygians in the early Christian era, to seek refuge from invasions and practice their religion without fear of persecution. Over the years, different civilizations expanded and used these underground cities for various reasons. Inside Kaymakli Underground City, one can find:

• Multiple levels: Kaymakli is a multi-level underground city, but not all groups are open to the public. The available classes give a good indication of the structure and design of the town.
• Living quarters: As expected in a city, there are living quarters that could accommodate families. These are small, carved-out rooms connected by narrow passageways.
• Stables: Areas designated for keeping animals. This is often the first level encountered when entering the underground city.
• Churches: Small chapels or worship areas are also carved out, indicating the religious activities of its inhabitants.
• Storage areas: There are numerous storage areas, likely for storing food, wine, and other necessities. These storage areas show that the inhabitants prepared for extended stays underground without access to the surface.
• Ventilation shafts: One of the remarkable features of underground cities is their ventilation system. Despite being underground, the city is well-ventilated thanks to numerous strategically placed poles.
• Water wells: There are also wells within the city to provide water for its inhabitants, ensuring they have essential supplies while underground.
• Wineries: There are areas designated for wine production, indicating the significance of wine in the inhabitants' daily lives.
• Kitchen areas: Places where food was prepared, often with carved niches that served as hearths or ovens.
• Security features: The city features various security measures to defend against intruders, including heavy stone doors that can roll across passageways to block access and holes in the ceiling from which the inhabitants can protect themselves if necessary.
• Communication tunnels: Some tunnels connect Kaymakli with other nearby underground cities, such as Derinkuyu.

It's essential to remember that the corridors and spaces inside can be pretty narrow and low, making it a tight fit for some visitors. While the city provides a fascinating insight into ancient ways of life and the resilience of early civilizations, those with claustrophobia might want to consider this before exploring the underground chambers.

How to Get to Kaymakli Underground City?

Kaymakli Underground City is one of Cappadocia, Turkey's most famous and largest underground cities. It's a must-visit for travelers interested in history and unique architecture. Here's how you can get to Kaymakli Underground City:

• Location: Nevsehir, the central city in the Cappadocia region, is about 20 km north of Kaymakli.
• Travel by car: If you rent a car, you can quickly drive from Nevsehir or any other town in Cappadocia to Kaymakli. The roads are generally well-maintained and signposted. A GPS or navigation app can help you take the most direct route.
• Join a tour: Numerous tour companies operate in Cappadocia. Most offer day trips, including a visit to Kaymakli or another underground city (like Derinkuyu). This can be a good option for a guided tour without worrying about transportation.
• Public transportation: It's possible that public transport is not as direct as the other options. Take a dolmus (a shared minivan or bus) from Nevsehir to Kaymakli. It might not drop you right at the entrance, but it'll get you close. Ask locals for the best dolmuş routes and timings.
• By taxi: If you are based in a nearby town or city like Goreme or Uchisar, you can hire a taxi to drive you to Kaymakli. It might be a bit pricier than other options, but it offers convenience and the possibility to negotiate a waiting time for the driver if you'd like a return ride.

From Goreme:

• Private driver: The most straightforward way is by joining an organized tour or hiring a private driver.
• By bus: Take a bus to Nevsehir. Once you arrive, transfer to a bus heading to Kaymakli.

From Urgup:

• Private driver: Consider joining an organized tour or hiring a private driver.
• By bus: Start by taking a bus from Urgup to Nevsehir. Upon arrival, transfer to a bus destined for Kaymakli.

From Uchisar:

• Private driver: Join an organized tour or secure a private driver.
• By bus: Board a bus from Uchisar to Nevsehir. After reaching Nevsehir, transfer to a Kaymakli-bound bus.

From Avanos:

• Private driver: You can join an organized tour or hire a private driver.
• By bus: Take a bus from Avanos to Nevsehir. Once there, make a transfer to a bus that goes to Kaymakli.

Tips:

• Before visiting, make sure to check the opening hours.
• The underground cities can be fantastic, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
• The tunnels and rooms can be narrow and low in places. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some stooping and tight spaces.
• If you are claustrophobic, think twice or try to prepare yourself. The deeper you go, the tighter some spaces become.
• Guided tours can provide invaluable information about the history and function of different rooms, so consider hiring a guide or joining a tour group.
• Lastly, Cappadocia has much more to offer than just the underground cities. Be sure to explore the fairy chimneys, rock churches, and the unique landscapes that make the region special. If you can, a hot air balloon ride at dawn is a must-do experience in Cappadocia!

Kaymakli Underground City Visiting Tips

Kaymakli Underground City, located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, is one of the world's most intriguing and impressive underground cities. Carved into the soft volcanic rock, early Christians used it as a refuge from persecuting Roman and Byzantine armies. If you're thinking of stopping by, here's how to maximize your time:

• Comfortable shoes: The floors can be uneven and slippery, and there are a lot of narrow passages and staircases. Good grip and ankle support will be beneficial.
• Layer up: While it can be hot outside, the underground city maintains a cooler temperature. It's best to wear layers that you can remove or add.
• Bring a flashlight: Some areas might be dimly lit, so having an extra light source can be helpful.
• Mind your head: The tunnels and doorways can be pretty low in some places. If you're tall, watch out!
• Guided tours: Hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour is beneficial. They can provide historical context, share exciting anecdotes, and ensure you don't miss any significant city sections.
• Time for your visit: Early mornings or afternoons are less crowded. This is especially important if you're claustrophobic since some tunnels can get congested with tourists.
• Stay hydrated: Even if it's cool underground, exploring can be physically demanding.
• Plan for at least 2 hours: This will give you ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Photography: Remember to respect any photography restrictions. Some areas might prohibit flash photography to preserve the site.
• Learn about the history beforehand: The more you know about the history of Kaymaklı and the reasons for its creation, the more you'll appreciate what you're seeing.
• Other underground cities: If you find Kaymakli fascinating, consider visiting Derinkuyu, another underground city nearby. It's even more profound than Kaymakli!
• Stay local: Consider staying in nearby towns like Goreme, Urgup, or Nevsehir to immerse yourself in the Cappadocia experience fully. This way, you can explore other attractions like fairy chimneys, rock formations, and hot air balloon rides.
• Respect the site: Remember that Kaymakli is an ancient historical site. Don't touch or damage anything, and avoid leaving any trash behind.

Why Choose Our Company for Your Cappadocia Tour?

• Local expertise: Our team is deeply rooted in Cappadocia, bringing unmatched local insights and knowledge. Exploring the Kaymakli Underground City with us ensures a comprehensive understanding of its history and significance.
• Tailored experiences: We recognize every explorer's distinctiveness. Our Cappadocia tours are customizable, catering to your interests and pace.
• Customer-centric approach: Your comfort and satisfaction are paramount. We provide top-notch services, from transport arrangements to expert guides, ensuring your trip to Kaymakli Underground City is memorable.