Hidden beneath the bustling metropolis, a fascinating world exists. From prehistoric times to the early 19th century, ancient or modern civilisations have consistently strived hard to find innovative ways to defend themselves at one time or another. This led to the construction of defensive city walls and secret tunnels or passages. However, underground cities are an aspect that continues to amaze us. From ancient civilisations to modern-day marvels, these cities have captured our imaginations for centuries.
Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the most intriguing subterranean settlements around the globe.
Derinkuyu, Turkey
Situated in Cappadocia, Derinkuyu is one of the largest underground cities in the world. It is believed that the lunar-like region of Turkey’s Cappadocia encompasses no less than 36 underground cities, with Derinkuyu being the deepest and most remarkable of all of them. The vast network of tunnels and passages, used as a shelter to protect in times of war, dates back to the 8th century BC. The self-sufficient underground city offers some of the most beautiful and favoured tourist destinations in Turkey.
Coober Pedy, Australia
Another such place that is famous for its beautiful underground habitat is Coober Pedy, a remote south Australian town. It is considered World’s Opal mining capital, and the place sparkles when light falls on the gem. The town’s name comes from the phrase ‘kupa-piti’, which means ‘water hole’ or ‘white man in a hole.’ A small population of 2500 people still lives underground in this town to escape the scorching heat.
Petra, Jordan
Nestled amidst the red sandstone mountains in southwestern Jordan, the underground city of Petra is a popular UNESCO Heritage site. It is an ancient architectural marvel that remained hidden until the 1800s.Founded in the 4th century BC by the Nabataean tribe, the place once housed around 30,000 people. This city is renowned for its exquisitely carved-out desert cliffs, reflecting the power and wealth of the Nabataeans. However, the kingdom began to decline around the 7th century AD and was annexed into Rome some centuries before its collapse.
Burlington, England
The British government planned to take shelter in this 60-mile-long underground bunker known as ‘Burlington’ in response to the Cold War nuclear strike. Constructed in the 1950s underneath Corsham village, the secret underground city facilitated office spaces, cafeterias, sleeping quarters, a telephone exchange, medical facilities and an in-house BBC studio. Everything was designed to ensure the safety of the British Prime Minister and 4000 workers during any unforeseen circumstances. Although it was never utilised, it kept working until 1991 before being declassified in 2004.
Dixia Cheng, China
Built during the Cold War era in the 1960s, the Beijing underground city was originally intended as a bomb shelter. It spans 85 square kilometers beneath the capital city of Beijing. It is said that the place could accommodate one million people for around four months. This hideout had everything from houses, hospitals, schools, granaries, restaurants, entertainment venues, and even an ice skating rink, which is now accessible to the public as a tourist attraction.
Naours, France
The subterranean city of Naours is another complex labyrinth of around 300 man-made rooms. Dating back to the third century AD, this city was used as a quarry in the beginning, and it soon got transformed into a secret village underneath for defence and refuge reasons. The city boasts chapels, wells and stables, along with sufficient room for around 3,000 people.
Montreal, Canada
Underneath the streets of this historic city lies an underground city of 4.6 square miles linked by a vast network of tunnels and interconnected buildings. Known as Reso, meaning ‘network’, this city is home to hotels, a library, restaurants, nightclubs and cinemas. The underground city is linked via 200 access points to Montreal that include Metro stations and even entrances located in above-ground museums. The idea to work on RESO began in 1962 to reduce traffic above the ground while giving people a way to enjoy themselves without going outside in the winter. With hundreds of entertainment units, RESO resembles a huge shopping mall.
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