Underground cities have long entranced people. These are some of the most famous underground cities…
History Cooperative By
Ancient underground cities are fascinating historical and archaeological discoveries found in various parts of the world. These cities were typically carved out of solid rock or constructed underground to provide shelter, protection, and refuge to their inhabitants. They often served as defensive structures, hiding places during times of war, or places of habitation during harsh weather conditions.
These cities are not only impressive engineering feats but also provide valuable insights into the lives and cultures of the people who inhabited them. They stand as a testament to human ingenuity and adaptability in the face of various challenges throughout history.
1. Derinkuyu: The Ancient Multi-level City in Turkey
Located in the historic Cappadocia region of Turkey, Derinkuyu is one of the largest underground cities in the world. This fascinating city was discovered in 1963 and is believed to have been built around the 8th century BC. Derinkuyu consists of 18 levels and was capable of housing around 20,000 people along with its livestock and storage facilities.
The city was designed with an intricate ventilation system, water wells, and meeting halls. What makes Derinkuyu even more intriguing is its connection to other underground cities through a series of tunnels, serving as an entire underground network.
Various civilizations, including the Hittites, Byzantines, and Ottomans, utilized this ancient city primarily as a hiding place in times of war.
2. Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum: The Subterranean Temple in Malta
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum in Malta is an ancient underground complex dating back to 4000 BC. It is considered one of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in the world, and in 1980, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This incredible structure features multiple levels and chambers, intricately carved out of limestone rock. The Hypogeum served as both a burial site and a place for ritualistic purposes.
Its beautifully sculpted chambers hold the remains of over 7,000 individuals. The most captivating aspect of this site, however, is the unique acoustic properties found within its “oracle chamber,” where sound resonates at extraordinary frequencies and produces a distinct acoustic effect.
3. Wieliczka Salt Mine: The Underground Kingdom in Poland
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside of Kraków, Poland, is a massive subterranean site that has been in continuous operation since the 13th century. With nine levels stretching down over 327 meters, this site has produced an astonishing 200 million metric tons of rock salt.
Today, Wieliczka Salt Mine is a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours through its historical and mythical chambers. Within this underground kingdom, you’ll find stunning salt sculptures, including the famous Last Supper and several salt-mineral chandeliers.
The mine also houses a health resort where visitors can undergo halotherapy treatments, which are believed to alleviate various respiratory issues and skin conditions.
4. Coober Pedy: The Opal Capital of the World, in Australia
In the heart of the South Australian desert lies the unusual town of Coober Pedy. Known as the opal capital of the world, this subterranean settlement is centered around opal mining and production. It was established in 1915 when the first opal was discovered in the area.
With the incredibly harsh climate above ground, most of the town’s population has opted to live in the cool comfort of underground “dugout” homes.
An estimated 1,500 residents live beneath the surface in these cave-like dwellings, complete with modern amenities. The town also boasts underground hotels, shops, restaurants, and even a church, making it a truly unique destination for travelers seeking an unusual adventure.
5. Burlington: The Secret Underground City in England
Beneath the quiet English countryside, shrouded in secrecy, lies one of the most well-known underground cities that was constructed in the late 1950s during the height of the Cold War. Known as Burlington, this hidden underground bunker was designed to house and protect the British Government in case of a nuclear attack.
Sprawling over 35 acres and extending around 60 meters below the surface, Burlington was equipped to sustain 4,000 government officials and staff members for up to three months…
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