Saratli Kirkgoz Underground City

Saratli Kirkgoz Underground City

Saratlı Kırkgöz Underground City is an extraordinary historical marvel that fascinates visitors with its deep-rooted past. Located near the Aksaray-Nevşehir main highway, approximately 25 km from the city center, it is regarded as one of Aksaray’s hidden treasures.

This subterranean city comprises seven levels, although only the upper three floors are accessible to tourists. It includes 40 chambers that served as living spaces, restrooms, and storage areas for the ancient Greek residents.

Saratli Kirkgoz Underground City

Saratlı Kırkgöz Underground City, similar to other subterranean cities in Cappadocia, provided sanctuary for early Christians escaping harsh Roman persecution.

The city featured a self-contained ecosystem that enabled its inhabitants to remain underground for extended periods without venturing outside. For their comfort and safety, the city included its own bakery, water well, and a sophisticated ventilation system that supplied fresh air throughout the tunnels.

Beyond serving as a shelter and defensive stronghold, archaeologists have uncovered numerous tunnels linking the villagers’ homes to the underground refuge. The entrance doors stand about 1.5 meters high, weigh roughly 200 kg, and have a distinctive millstone design. These doors were crafted to allow arrow shots through central holes during attacks, as well as sending signals from inside to alert residents of dangers.

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