Main Entrance Level
The largest area, featuring spacious stables and initial defense posts.
The Saratlı Kırkgöz Underground City dates back to the Roman period and was significantly expanded during the Byzantine era. It was strategically carved into the soft volcanic tuff to provide a secure hideout during religious persecutions and military invasions.
The city currently has three levels open to the public, though it is believed that more levels exist beneath the silt and earth. Archaeological excavations have uncovered a wealth of everyday items, including pottery, oil lamps, and grindstones, which prove that Saratlı was not just a temporary shelter, but a fully functioning seasonal village.
One of the most impressive architectural features is the water management system. The inhabitants carved deep wells that reached the groundwater table, ensuring a steady supply even when the surface was under siege. Additionally, the city features "communication holes" that allowed residents to speak between floors without leaving their rooms.
Surrounding the underground city today is a vibrant village community. Local women often set up small stalls selling handmade dolls and traditional crafts, bridging the gap between the ancient subterranean past and the living culture of modern-day Turkey.