Exploring the Enchanting Landscapes of Goreme, Turkey

Underground Wonders of Cappadocia

Today, Elke, Maximilian and I ventured into the heart of Cappadocia, not upwards towards the famed hot air balloons, but downwards, into the intricate and historically rich underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli. As a restorer of antique furniture, I'm naturally drawn to places where history is palpable, where the past is not just a story but a tangible presence. I was eager to explore these subterranean marvels and share the experience with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kale Terrasse Restaurant. Perched under one of Cappadocia's iconic fairy chimney rock formations, the restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with local delicacies. I savored a traditional Turkish breakfast of fresh bread, olives, and local cheeses, while Maximilian enjoyed a more familiar omelet. Elke, ever the tea enthusiast, sipped on a fragrant apple tea. The warm welcome from the staff made us feel right at home, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.


Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with breathtaking views at Kale Terrasse Restaurant in scenic Göreme.

After breakfast, we set off for Derinkuyu, the largest excavated underground city in Turkey. The drive itself was captivating, with the surreal Cappadocian landscape unfolding before us. As we approached Derinkuyu, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The idea of an entire city hidden beneath the earth was both fascinating and slightly daunting.

Stepping into Derinkuyu was like stepping back in time. The city, carved from the soft volcanic rock, dates back to the 8th-7th centuries BC and was expanded by early Christians seeking refuge from persecution. As we descended into the depths, I marveled at the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its creators. The narrow tunnels, the ingenious ventilation system, and the various chambers – living quarters, kitchens, wineries, and even a church – spoke volumes about the lives of those who once dwelled here.


Explore the hidden depths of history at Derinkuyu Underground City, a captivating site that reveals the ingenuity of ancient civilizations in Cappadocia.

The deeper you delve into history, the more you realize the enduring strength of the human spirit.

I was particularly struck by the massive rolling stone doors, designed to seal off each level of the city in times of danger. It was easy to imagine the inhabitants huddled within these walls, seeking protection from invaders. The city could accommodate as many as 20,000 people, along with their livestock and food stores. As someone who spends his days restoring antique furniture, I couldn't help but appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating this subterranean world.

Maximilian, initially skeptical about spending a day underground, soon became engrossed in the experience. He peppered our guide with questions about the city's history and its inhabitants. Elke, with her librarian's curiosity, was fascinated by the stories of the early Christians who had sought refuge here.

After exploring Derinkuyu, we drove to Kaymakli, another remarkable underground city, connected to Derinkuyu by miles of tunnels. While Kaymakli is smaller than Derinkuyu, it is no less impressive. It was built by the Hittites and expanded by early Christians. Kaymakli was used as a shelter and a storage place. The city has eight levels, four of which are open to the public. We wandered through its maze-like tunnels, marveling at the storage areas, kitchens, and living quarters. The ventilation shafts, essential for providing fresh air, were particularly impressive.


Discover Kaymakli Underground City, an ancient marvel in Cappadocia, Turkey, where history and adventure await beneath the surface.

One of the most striking features of Kaymakli was its multi-purpose design. Unlike some other underground cities that were primarily shelters, Kaymakli was a fully functioning community, complete with churches, storage rooms and even animal stables. This gave me a sense of how people were living their lives underground.

For lunch, we stopped at Retro Cappadocia Restaurant Local Food. This charming restaurant served authentic Turkish cuisine, with many vegetarian options available. We shared a meze plate, sampling a variety of local delicacies, and I couldn't resist trying the testi kebab, a traditional dish cooked in a clay pot. The food was delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming. Maximilian enjoyed the pudding for dessert.


Experience authentic Turkish delights at Retro Cappadocia Restaurant—where local flavors meet warm hospitality in Göreme.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Henna Hotel Rooftop Bar for a relaxing drink. Perched high above Göreme, the bar offered breathtaking panoramic views of Cappadocia's unique landscape. We sipped on local wines, watching as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we struck up conversations with fellow travelers from around the world.


Discover enchanting views and exquisite drinks at the Henna Hotel Rooftop Bar, where Cappadocia's magic comes alive in every sip.

Elke and I enjoyed the local wine, while Maximilian enjoyed a refreshing juice. The Henna Hotel Rooftop Bar was the perfect setting to reflect on the day's adventures.

For dinner, we chose Maya Restaurant Cappadocia, known for its Mediterranean-Turkish cuisine. The restaurant was nestled in a cave-carved space, creating an enchanting ambiance. We enjoyed a delicious meal of vegetarian delights, inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean coast. The restaurant was truly inspired by the traditions of the region. The experience was a fitting end to a day of subterranean exploration and culinary discovery.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean flavors in Göreme at Maya Restaurant, where stunning views meet exceptional cuisine.

Before heading back to Kookaburra Pension, we stopped by the Henna Hotel Rooftop Bar again for one last drink. The bar was lively, and the views were even more stunning under the starlit sky. It was a perfect ending to a day of exploration and discovery.


Discover the heart of Göreme at Kookaburra Pension, offering affordable comfort, local cuisine, and stunning views for an unforgettable stay.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit St. Jean Church and the Dark Church, continuing our exploration of Cappadocia's rich history and cultural heritage. I am looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and sharing them with you all.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I am struck by the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit. The underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are a testament to the ability of people to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. They are a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope and community can endure.

I am also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Travel is not just about seeing new places; it is about creating lasting memories and strengthening the bonds that connect us. As we continue our journey through Cappadocia, I look forward to more adventures and discoveries, and to sharing them with you all.