Kaymaklı Underground City

Located in the heart of Cappadocia, Kaymaklı Underground City is one of the region's most remarkable archaeological treasures. Carved deep into the soft volcanic rock, this vast underground settlement was built to protect its inhabitants during times of war and invasion. Today, it offers visitors a fascinating opportunity to explore one of the largest and best-preserved underground cities in the world.

Together with Derinkuyu, Kaymaklı showcases the incredible engineering skills and resilience of the ancient civilizations that once lived in Cappadocia.

A Fascinating History

The earliest sections of Kaymaklı are believed to date back to the Hittite period, while much of the city was expanded during the Byzantine era.

Early Christian communities enlarged the underground complex to create a safe refuge from invading armies. Families could live underground for extended periods thanks to carefully planned storage areas, ventilation systems, water supplies, and places of worship.

For centuries, Kaymaklı served as both a shelter and a thriving underground community.

An Underground City Designed for Daily Life

Unlike a simple shelter, Kaymaklı was a fully functioning underground settlement.

Visitors can explore:

• Living quarters
• Kitchens
• Food storage rooms
• Wine cellars
• Churches and chapels
• Ventilation shafts
• Water wells
• Animal stables
• Storage chambers
• Narrow tunnels connecting different levels

Although the city extends through multiple underground floors, approximately four levels are currently open to visitors.

Incredible Ancient Engineering

Kaymaklı demonstrates the remarkable engineering knowledge of its builders.

Its design includes:

• Sophisticated ventilation systems supplying fresh air throughout the city
• Carefully carved tunnels connecting different sections
• Large circular stone doors used to seal entrances during attacks
• Underground storage areas designed to preserve food supplies
• Independent water sources for long-term survival

These features allowed entire communities to remain safely underground for weeks or even months.

Kaymaklı vs. Derinkuyu

Both Kaymaklı and Derinkuyu are extraordinary underground cities, but they offer different experiences.

Kaymaklı is known for:

• Wider tunnels in many sections
• Larger residential areas
• A more open layout for visitors
• Excellent preservation of daily living spaces

Derinkuyu, on the other hand, is deeper and extends farther underground, while Kaymaklı provides a broader view of how people lived beneath the surface.

Many visitors choose to explore both sites during their stay in Cappadocia.

Visiting Kaymaklı Underground City

Kaymaklı is located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Göreme and can easily be visited as part of a full-day Cappadocia tour.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as visitors will encounter uneven floors, steps, and narrow passageways. Some areas have low ceilings, adding to the authentic underground experience.

Interesting Facts

• One of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia.
• Originally developed thousands of years ago.
• Expanded extensively during the Byzantine period.
• Features living areas, churches, kitchens, and storage rooms.
• Protected by massive circular stone doors.
• Connected to a network of underground settlements across the region.
• One of Türkiye's most popular archaeological attractions.

Best Time to Visit

Kaymaklı can be visited throughout the year.

Spring and autumn are especially pleasant for combining your visit with nearby attractions such as Göreme Open-Air Museum, Uçhisar Castle, Love Valley, and a sunrise hot air balloon flight.

Morning visits usually offer a quieter and more enjoyable experience.

Why Visit Kaymaklı Underground City?

Kaymaklı Underground City is a remarkable example of ancient engineering and human ingenuity. Exploring its tunnels, homes, churches, and storage rooms provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the people who once sought safety beneath Cappadocia's unique landscape.

Whether you are passionate about history, archaeology, early Christianity, or unique travel experiences, Kaymaklı is an unforgettable destination that should be included in every Cappadocia itinerary.

For a richer experience, visit Kaymaklı with a licensed private guide who can explain the history, architecture, and hidden stories behind one of the world's most extraordinary underground cities.