Explore the hidden wonders beneath our feet, where entire cities have been built underground. These fascinating spaces reveal stories of human ingenuity and adaptation, from ancient civilizations to modern urban planning. Discover how these unique cities offer a glimpse into our past while serving practical purposes today.
Ten Underground Cities to Visit
Underground cities are fascinating places. They show us how people lived and adapted over time. Here are ten amazing underground cities that you can visit and learn about.
1. Derinkuyu, Turkey
Derinkuyu is in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. This ancient city goes down about 60 meters, which is about 200 feet. It could hold thousands of people. The tunnels and rooms include kitchens, living spaces, and even wine cellars. People built it to stay safe from invaders. The narrow passages helped keep intruders out. When you visit, you can walk through the winding tunnels and feel the history of the place.
2. Kaymakli, Turkey
Another impressive underground city is Kaymakli, also in Cappadocia. Like Derinkuyu, Kaymakli has many tunnels. It has eight levels that you can explore. This city also served as a refuge from attacks. Inside, you will find stables, churches, and living areas. The wide tunnels let people move around easily. Visiting Kaymakli gives you a great look at how ancient people protected themselves and lived underground.
3. Naours, France
Naours is in northern France. This underground city has many tunnels and chambers. It was used for hiding during wars, especially the Hundred Years’ War. When you visit, you can see the remains of military life, like barracks and storage rooms. Walking through Naours, you get to learn about how people survived during tough times. This site shows how creativity and safety go hand in hand.
4. Montreal’s RESO, Canada
Montreal’s RESO, also called La Ville Souterraine, is a modern underground city. It stretches over 30 kilometers, or about 18.6 miles. This city has shops, restaurants, and connects to the metro system. It was built to help people avoid the harsh winter weather. You can walk through the tunnels and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with art, cafes, and shops all around. Visiting RESO is like discovering a whole new part of the city below ground.
5. Beijing Underground City, China
The Beijing Underground City was built during the Cold War. It is a network of tunnels designed for protection in case of nuclear attacks. It is not as large as some ancient underground cities, but it has a unique story. Guided tours let you explore the tunnels and learn about this important part of history. This site shows how cities prepared for challenges and how they adapted to fears of the time.
6. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is not a city but an incredible underground site. Located near Kraków, this mine is famous for its salt carvings and chapels. Dating back to the 13th century, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. When you visit, you will see beautiful sculptures and art all made from salt. The mine has a rich history and showcases the talent of miners over the centuries. It’s a unique experience that mixes art and history.
7. Coober Pedy, Australia
Coober Pedy is an unusual town in Australia where many residents live underground. The extreme heat above ground led people to dig homes and shops into the earth. When you visit, you can see how these underground dwellings work. You can also check out the underground church called St. Peter & Paul’s. This town shows how people adapt to their environment in creative ways.
8. Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain
Setenil de las Bodegas is a charming town in Spain. What makes it special is how the buildings are built into large rock overhangs. This unique design creates a beautiful blend of nature and architecture. As you walk through Setenil, you will find cafes and shops nestled under cliffs. It’s a peaceful place that shows how people can live with nature instead of fighting it.
9. Lascaux Caves, France
The Lascaux Caves in France are famous for their prehistoric cave paintings. These paintings are over 17,000 years old. Although you can’t visit the original caves anymore, Lascaux IV offers a replica for visitors. Here, you can see detailed artwork depicting animals and hunting scenes. The replica gives you a sense of early human creativity and their connection to nature.
10. The Catacombs of Paris, France
The Catacombs of Paris are a well-known underground site filled with bones. They contain the remains of over six million people, moved from crowded cemeteries. Guided tours allow you to walk through the dark tunnels where bones are displayed along the walls. This place tells a powerful story about burial practices and the history of Paris. It’s an experience that is both haunting and fascinating.
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What Are Underground Cities?
Underground cities are places built below the ground. They can be big or small and have different purposes. Some of these cities are very old and were made for safety, while others are modern and built for convenience. You can find homes, shops, and even schools in these hidden areas.
When you visit underground cities, you can see tunnels and rooms where people lived their daily lives. It’s interesting to think about how different cultures created these spaces. Seeing these underground worlds helps us understand how people adapted to their surroundings. Isn’t it cool to think about how they came to be?
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Why Build Underground?
People build underground cities for many reasons. One main reason is safety. In the past, people created these cities to protect themselves from attackers. Being underground helped them stay hidden and safe.
Another reason is about the weather. In hot places, like Coober Pedy in Australia, living underground keeps homes cool. It feels much better to be below ground when it’s hot outside.
Also, building underground saves space on the surface. In crowded cities, making room below helps manage growing populations. This way, there can be more parks and buildings above ground.
Overall, underground cities show how people find ways to deal with different challenges. They are both practical and fun to visit.
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Travel Tips
If you want to visit underground cities, here are some helpful tips:
- Dress Right: It can be cooler underground, so wear layers. Also, wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking a lot.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle! It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re busy exploring.
- Join Guided Tours: Many underground cities offer guided tours. These tours are helpful because they teach you about the city’s history. A guide can also point out important spots you might miss.
- Follow the Rules: Pay attention to the rules at each site. Some areas have special rules to keep everyone safe and protect history.
- Plan Ahead: Research the cities you want to visit before you go. Check their hours, ticket prices, and any events. This helps you make the most of your trip.
- Bring a Camera: Don’t forget your camera! Underground cities can be beautiful, and you’ll want to take pictures. Just check if photography is allowed first.
These tips can help you have a fun and safe visit to these amazing underground places.
Conclusion
Underground cities are exciting and tell us a lot about history and human creativity. They show how people adapt to their surroundings for safety and comfort. From ancient times to modern places, these underground cities highlight our ability to survive and innovate. Visiting them can be a thrilling adventure filled with new stories and discoveries. Why not think about checking out these hidden worlds beneath our feet?
FAQ
What is an underground city?
An underground city is a community built below the earth’s surface. It can include homes, shops, and public spaces.
Why were underground cities built?
They were built mainly for safety from attackers, to manage extreme weather, and to save space above ground.
Are underground cities safe to visit?
Yes, most underground cities are safe for visitors. They usually have guided tours and safety measures.
How deep can underground cities go?
The depth can vary. For example, Derinkuyu in Turkey goes down about 60 meters, or 200 feet deep.
Can I take photos in underground cities?
Photography rules can vary. Always check if taking pictures is allowed before you take any photos.
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Ron Hoekstra, a Dutch designer based in Taiwan, combines his passion for creativity with a love of travel. Inspired by his adventures, he launched a travel blog to share his experiences and insights. Professionally, he excels as a web designer and SEO expert, blending technical expertise with artistic vision to create impactful digital projects.
