GoTurkiye image

Underground Cities and Valleys Route

Nevşehir Castle

Nevşehir Castle's image
Dive into the grandeur of Türkiye's history and culture with a visit to the magnificent Nevşehir Castle located in the heart of Nevşehir. This architectural masterpiece brings forth a love-letter from bygone eras, inviting you to explore the depth and breadth of Türkiye's illustrious past etched within its sturdy stone walls. Carved out of a single hill of tufa rock, Nevşehir Castle is a testament to the ingenious craftsmanship of human hands. Stairstep lanes wind themselves up the hillside, leading to a fantastical labyrinth of tunnels and chambers. Awaken your inner explorers as you tread slowly through the ancient multi-layered network, unearthing artefacts of forgotten times. The castle's strategic height offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city that are an absolute treat for your eyes. As you watch the breathtakingly beautiful sunrise or sunset, allow the soft whispers of glorious myth, folklore, and legend that permeate the air to transport you to a world brimming with sagas of valor, love, conquest, and wisdom. Last but not least, make sure you don't miss the delightful local eateries surrounding Nevşehir Castle, where you can savour the authentic flavours of Türkiye's gastronomic culture. Breathe in the essence of Nevşehir Castle, an asset to hover on the top of your 'must-visit' list. Be a part of history, delicately intertwined with resilience and charm, making your journey to Türkiye truly memorable and enriching. Let's journey to the soul of Türkiye, let's share the spirit of Nevşehir.

Kaymaklı Underground City

Kaymaklı Underground City's image
The Cappadocia Region is home to an estimated 150 to 200 underground cities, primarily carved into soft tuff rocks for security reasons, with interconnected rooms and labyrinthine tunnels to restrict enemy mobility. The underground city of Kaymaklı in the village of the same name is notable for its unique layout and multi-story design. Its tunnels are low, narrow, and sloping, with four floors currently uncovered, featuring stables on the first floor and storage areas, wineries, and kitchens on the third floor. Of particular interest is a block of andesite with relief-texture on the third floor, showcasing 57 holes for crushing and grinding purposes. Despite not being fully excavated, Kaymaklı is considered one of the largest underground settlements in the region, with a significant number of storage rooms suggesting a sizable population once lived there.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City's image
Derinkuyu Underground City is one of the largest and most complex of the approximately 150-200 underground settlements in Cappadocia, Türkiye. Carved from soft tuff rock, it served as a refuge during invasions, reaching a depth of 85 meters. The city features multiple levels with distinct areas. These include stables, storage rooms, kitchens, dining halls, churches, and even a school, reflecting the comprehensive planning involved in creating a self-sustaining underground community. One of the most remarkable features of Derinkuyu is its ventilation shaft, which also serves as a water well, ensuring a steady supply of fresh air and water deep below the surface. Only a portion of the city is open to visitors, showcasing communal spaces like kitchens with traditional "Tandoor" stoves. Derinkuyu exemplifies the advanced underground architecture of ancient Cappadocia.

Red Valley

Red Valley's image
Every other spot here serves the best dreamy sunset, but one sets itself apart from every other: Red Valley. Located just near Çavuşin Village and Ortahisar, Red Valley draws the most romantic and unforgettable moments as the sky takes on crimson red tones. Visitors are encouraged to start their walk through the rare formations red tuff creates just before sunset and take their place at the viewing terrace just at the right moment, to soak in the glamour.