History of Kaymakli Underground City
Kaymakli Underground City is one of the most impressive and well-preserved underground cities in Cappadocia, Turkey. It is a multi-level underground city that was carved out of volcanic rock and is believed to have been used by the Hittites in the 8th century BC. The city was later used by early Christians as a refuge during times of persecution, and it continued to be used as a hiding place throughout the centuries.
The history of Kaymakli Underground City is a long and fascinating one. The city was carved out of the soft tuff rock that is common in the Cappadocia region. The process of carving out the city would have been a long and difficult one, as it involved digging out the rock with simple tools like picks and chisels. The result was a maze of tunnels, rooms, and chambers that extended several levels deep into the earth.
The city was likely first used by the Hittites, who were an ancient civilization that ruled over much of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) in the 2nd millennium BC. They are believed to have used the underground city as a hiding place during times of war, as the city’s tunnels and chambers would have provided a safe haven from enemy attacks.
The city was later used by early Christians as a refuge during times of persecution. The region of Cappadocia was an important center of Christianity in the early centuries AD, and Christians fleeing persecution would have found safety in the underground city’s hidden tunnels and chambers.
Over the centuries, the city continued to be used as a hiding place, with various groups seeking refuge there during times of war and conflict. It was also used as a storage area for food and supplies, as well as a place to keep livestock safe from marauding armies.
Today, Kaymakli Underground City is open to visitors who want to explore its ancient tunnels and chambers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most impressive examples of underground architecture in the world. Visitors can wander through the maze of tunnels, explore the various levels of the city, and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient underground civilization.
