Discover the hidden wonders of ancient civilizations buried beneath the surface of the Earth.
Beneath the bustling cities and serene landscapes of the world lie incredible ancient underground cities that tell stories of human ingenuity and survival. These subterranean marvels served as refuges, trade hubs, and cultural centers for civilizations long gone. From hidden labyrinths to elaborate cave systems, these cities remain a testament to the creativity and resilience of their builders.
Here are 11 ancient underground cities you probably never knew existed.
1. Explore the depths of Derinkuyu in Cappadocia, Turkey
Derinkuyu is a vast underground city in Cappadocia, Turkey, built to shelter thousands of people during invasions. This multi-level marvel, extending over 200 feet below ground, features living quarters, kitchens, chapels, and even stables. Ingenious ventilation shafts and stone doors protected its inhabitants. Rediscovered in the 1960s, Derinkuyu is now open for visitors to explore its narrow passageways and learn about its fascinating history. Its scale and complexity are a testament to ancient engineering brilliance.
2. Discover the ancient network of Naours, France
Located in northern France, Naours is a massive underground network of tunnels and chambers dating back to the 3rd century. Originally dug as limestone quarries, it later became a refuge during wars and invasions. The site contains over 300 rooms, including chapels and wells, providing shelter for thousands. During World War I, soldiers left graffiti on the walls, adding a layer of historical significance. Today, Naours offers a unique glimpse into life underground through the ages.
3. Wander the labyrinth of Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland
The Edinburgh Vaults, also known as the South Bridge Vaults, are a series of underground chambers constructed in the late 18th century. Originally used for storage and workshops, they later became a refuge for the city’s poor and a hub for illicit activities. These dark, eerie chambers are now popular for ghost tours and historical explorations. Walking through the vaults offers an atmospheric journey into Edinburgh’s hidden past, revealing stories of hardship, crime, and resilience.
4. Step into the subterranean city of Kaymakli in Turkey
Kaymakli, another fascinating underground city in Cappadocia, is smaller than Derinkuyu but equally impressive. This ancient refuge features interconnected tunnels, living quarters, and communal spaces, all designed to accommodate thousands during times of conflict. Kaymakli is known for its ingenious storage areas, where food and wine were preserved for long periods. Visitors can explore the narrow passageways and marvel at the city’s advanced design, which reflects the resourcefulness of its ancient inhabitants.
5. Uncover the secrets of the Shanghai Tunnels in Portland, USA
The Shanghai Tunnels, located beneath Portland, Oregon, were reportedly used for illicit purposes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These underground passages connected hotels, saloons, and the waterfront, allegedly facilitating the kidnapping of men for forced labor on ships, a practice known as “shanghaiing.” Today, guided tours offer a glimpse into this shadowy chapter of Portland’s history. The tunnels’ dimly lit corridors and mysterious atmosphere provide a hauntingly fascinating experience.
6. Marvel at the ancient caves of Matera, Italy
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Italy, is home to a network of ancient cave dwellings and underground churches carved into limestone cliffs. These “sassi,” or stone houses, date back to prehistoric times and were continuously inhabited until the 20th century. Today, Matera’s subterranean world has been transformed into museums, boutique hotels, and restaurants, offering visitors a chance to experience its unique blend of history and modernity.
7. Explore the ancient city of Petra’s hidden tombs, Jordan
While Petra is famous for its iconic rock-cut facades, its lesser-known underground tombs and tunnels reveal another layer of this ancient city’s history. These subterranean spaces were used for burials and ceremonies by the Nabataeans. The intricate carvings and design of the tombs showcase the craftsmanship of this lost civilization. Exploring Petra’s underground wonders offers a deeper appreciation of the ingenuity that made it one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.
8. Descend into the catacombs of Paris, France
The Catacombs of Paris are a vast underground ossuary housing the remains of over six million people. Created in the late 18th century, the catacombs were part of an effort to address the city’s overcrowded cemeteries. Visitors can wander through dimly lit tunnels lined with neatly arranged bones and skulls, reflecting a haunting yet fascinating history. The catacombs are a unique and eerie attraction that offers insight into Paris’s complex and layered past.
9. Visit the underground salt city of Wieliczka, Poland
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, near Kraków, Poland, is an extraordinary underground complex that has been in operation since the 13th century. Its vast chambers, chapels, and sculptures are carved entirely out of salt, showcasing the artistry of its miners. Highlights include the stunning Chapel of St. Kinga, adorned with intricate salt chandeliers. A guided tour through the mine offers a glimpse into the history of salt mining and the breathtaking beauty hidden beneath the earth’s surface.
10. Discover the underground temples of Ellora, India
The Ellora Caves, located in Maharashtra, India, are a series of rock-cut temples and monasteries built between the 6th and 10th centuries. Among them is the awe-inspiring Kailasa Temple, a massive structure carved from a single rock. The caves represent a blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, reflecting India’s rich cultural and religious history. Exploring these subterranean temples offers an unparalleled journey into ancient architectural and spiritual marvels.
11. Unearth the secrets of Derbent’s underground passages, Russia
Derbent, one of Russia’s oldest cities, is home to a series of underground passages and chambers linked to its ancient fortress. These tunnels were used for defense, escape, and storage during sieges. The city’s strategic location on the Caspian Sea made it a vital trade hub and a target for invaders. Today, visitors can explore Derbent’s underground network, gaining insight into the ingenuity of its builders and the city’s tumultuous history.