Derinkuyu Underground City

Cappadocia contains several historical underground cities, carved out of unusual geological formations formed via the eruptions of ancient volcanoes. The cities were initially inhabited by the Hittites, then later by early Christians as hiding places. They are now archeological and tourists sites, but are not generally occupied (see Kaymakli Underground City). The latest large underground city was discovered in 2007 in Gaziemir, Guzelyurt. This city was a stopover on the Silk Road, allowing travelers and their camels to rest in safety in these underground ‘fortress’ like places.