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Ailsa’s challenge this week is “Secret Places” and refers to secluded, undiscovered or lesser known locations that move us, and speak to us like no other.  Places of beauty and charm that are personal refuges, that we are reluctant to share with others.

But there are some secret places on this earth, that man has been forced to create, not to enjoy, but to be able to survive. To escape harsh elements, but mostly to hide from tyranny and persecution. Because he was perceived to be different. Or just because he did not happen to pray to the ‘right’ God.

The surreal lunar landscape of Cappadocia conceals a massive network of such secret places……whole subterranean cities several layers deep! Originally thought to have been built over 3500 years ago, by the Hittites making their last stand against the enemy they called the ‘Sea People’, it was later used by early Christians fleeing persecution by the Romans.

Narrow passage with niches for oil lamps leading to larger rooms – Derinkuyu, Cappadocia

The stable on the first level – Derinkuyu, Cappadocia

Narrow claustrophobic tunnels lead to large rooms with ventilation shafts and niches in walls for oil lamps. The first level was always for stables and animal pens. The living areas, kitchens, churches and store rooms stretching below over several levels. There were baths, toilets and wineries too! And dry wells for water storage and wet wells over natural springs, both sometimes connected for a continuous supply of fresh water.

Massive grain stores ensured the inhabitants could survive a siege underground almost indefinitely! The dead were interred in temporary burial chambers till their remains could be transferred to permanent graves outside.

Ventilation shafts – Derinkuyu, Cappadocia

Millstone ready to be rolled into entrance – Derinkuyu, Cappadocia

There are reputedly innumerable underground cities around Cappadocia spread over a radius of a hundred square miles! Only forty have been excavated so far, and of these just six are open to the public.

A fascinating part of any Cappadocia itinerary, but don’t expect artwork and mosaic (the word cities did conjure that up for me) at least, not in the ones open to the public. And do not attempt it if you are claustrophobic :-)

You can check out more secret places or share your own here

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