15 Hidden Underground Cities You Can Actually Visit

1. Derinkuyu, Turkey

Nestled in the heart of Cappadocia, Derinkuyu stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity. This multi-level underground city could accommodate up to 20,000 people along with their livestock and food stores. With its intricate network of tunnels and rooms descending over 60 meters, it served as a formidable refuge during times of conflict. The city boasts a sophisticated ventilation system that ensured fresh air circulated throughout its depths, while hidden passages provided secure routes for its inhabitants. Today, visitors can explore this ancient marvel, discovering the secrets of its past.

2. Naours, France

Beneath the serene hills of Picardy lies the underground city of Naours, an expansive network that offered refuge during tumultuous times. Originally crafted in the Middle Ages, this subterranean labyrinth features over 300 rooms, serving as a haven for villagers during invasions. The network includes a chapel, reflecting the community’s resilience and faith amidst adversity. Visitors today can walk through its winding passages, gaining insight into the lives of those who once sought shelter in its depths, while admiring the architectural prowess that made such a sanctuary possible.

3. Beijing Underground City, China

Beneath the bustling streets of Beijing lies an expansive network known as the Beijing Underground City. Constructed during the 1970s as a fallout shelter amidst rising geopolitical tensions, it was designed to house civilians in case of emergencies. Stretching over 85 square kilometers, this subterranean city includes a myriad of tunnels and rooms. Today, it serves as a fascinating tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into its historical purpose while featuring shops and cultural exhibits. Visitors can explore this underground marvel, experiencing a unique blend of history and modern cultural displays.

4. Burlington Bunker, England

Deep beneath the picturesque countryside of Corsham, Burlington Bunker stands as a relic of the Cold War era. Conceived as a secure refuge for government officials in the event of a nuclear attack, this underground city was designed to operate independently for several months. Spanning over 35 acres, it includes living quarters, offices, and even a BBC broadcast studio. Though much of it remains off-limits, select areas are now open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into this historical site and the strategic planning of its time.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a mesmerizing subterranean world that has captivated visitors for centuries. Located near Kraków, this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 13th century and stretches over 300 kilometers of tunnels. Within its depths, you’ll find stunning chapels intricately carved from salt, including the famous Chapel of St. Kinga adorned with salt sculptures and chandeliers. The mine also features an underground lake, enhancing the ethereal atmosphere. As you explore, you’ll witness the rich history and artistry embedded in this incredible underground landscape.

6. Kish, Iran

On the island of Kish, the ancient Kariz Underground City showcases the ingenuity of early Persian engineers. Originally built as a sophisticated water management system, these qanats transported fresh water across the arid landscape. The underground network also provided refuge during times of conflict. Today, the site has been transformed into a tourist destination, allowing visitors to wander through its cool, labyrinthine passages. As you explore, you’ll appreciate the remarkable blend of historical function and architectural beauty, reflecting the enduring legacy of Persian innovation.

7. Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain

In the scenic region of Andalusia, Setenil de las Bodegas captivates visitors with its unique architecture. This charming town is built into and beneath dramatic rock formations, with homes and shops nestled directly under the overhanging cliffs. This natural fortification has sheltered its inhabitants for centuries, contributing to its long and storied history. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll discover how the rocky canopy creates a cool, shaded environment. Setenil offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Spain’s hidden gems.

8. Montreal’s RESO, Canada

Beneath the vibrant streets of Montreal lies RESO, one of the world’s largest underground complexes. Spanning over 32 kilometers, this modern subterranean city connects a myriad of shops, restaurants, and cultural spaces. Designed to provide a sheltered environment against the harsh Canadian winters, RESO also integrates vital transport links, making it a bustling hub of activity year-round. As you explore this interconnected network, you’ll experience a seamless blend of urban convenience and architectural innovation. Visitors can enjoy the diverse offerings of Montreal without ever stepping above ground.

9. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia’s landscape is renowned for its rock-cut architecture, featuring a network of underground cities that stretch across this ancient region. Carved into the soft volcanic rock, these subterranean havens served as shelters during invasions and harsh weather conditions. Beyond Derinkuyu, cities like Kaymakli and Özkonak also captivate visitors with their intricate designs and historical significance. These multi-level complexes include living quarters, chapels, and storage areas, showcasing the resilience and creativity of their builders. Exploring Cappadocia offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and marvel at these hidden wonders.

10. Edinburgh Vaults, Scotland

Beneath the historic streets of Edinburgh lies a network of chambers known as the Edinburgh Vaults. Constructed in the late 18th century, these vaults were originally used for storage by local merchants. Over time, they became shelter for the city’s less fortunate and a hub for illicit activities. Today, the vaults are open to the public, offering intriguing historical tours that delve into their shadowy past. As you explore, you’ll uncover tales of the city’s underbelly and gain a deeper appreciation for this remarkable subterranean world, rich in history and mystery.

11. Coober Pedy, Australia

In the heart of the Australian outback, Coober Pedy is renowned for its opal mines and unique underground dwellings. Faced with extreme desert temperatures, many residents have chosen to live in dugouts, homes carved into the rock that provide natural insulation. This subterranean lifestyle extends beyond homes to include churches, shops, and even hotels, offering a comfortable refuge from the sun. Visitors to Coober Pedy can explore this fascinating underground community, gaining insight into the resilience and innovation of its inhabitants while marveling at the town’s rich opal heritage.

12. Seattle Underground, USA

Beneath the vibrant streets of Seattle lies a network of historic passageways, remnants of the city’s original street level. Following the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the streets were elevated, leaving these underground corridors preserved beneath the bustling Pioneer Square. These passageways, once home to shops and businesses, are now a fascinating tourist attraction. Visitors can embark on guided tours to learn about Seattle’s early days and the resilience of its community. As you wander through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and architectural evolution.

13. Moscow Metro-2, Russia

Shrouded in mystery, Moscow Metro-2 is an alleged secret metro system that reportedly runs parallel to the public Moscow Metro. Believed to have been built during the Cold War, it was supposedly designed to serve the government and military, offering secure transport in emergencies. While its existence remains unconfirmed and largely speculative, the intrigue surrounding Metro-2 adds an enigmatic layer to Moscow’s urban landscape. For those fascinated by Cold War history and urban legends, the mere idea of this covert network continues to captivate the imagination, despite its limited public access.

14. Petra, Jordan

Petra, often referred to as the “Rose City,” is a breathtaking archaeological site nestled amidst the rugged cliffs of southern Jordan. This ancient city, carved directly into the vibrant sandstone, is renowned for its remarkable architecture and historical importance. The iconic Treasury, with its elaborate façade, stands as a testament to the skill and artistry of the Nabataeans who once thrived here. Visitors can explore a network of tombs, temples, and pathways that weave through the rock, each telling stories of a once-flourishing civilization. Petra remains a symbol of endurance and creativity, drawing explorers from around the world.

15. Matera, Italy

Matera, a city in southern Italy, is celebrated for its ancient cave dwellings known as “Sassi.” These remarkable structures, carved into limestone cliffs, have been continuously inhabited for millennia, reflecting an enduring legacy of human adaptation. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, Matera offers visitors a chance to step back in time, wandering through its winding alleys and exploring homes and churches hewn from rock. This unique fusion of history and architecture provides a fitting conclusion to our exploration of underground cities. Embark on a journey to these hidden worlds and uncover the stories etched into their depths.