#underground cities

Underground cities have fascinated people for centuries, serving various purposes from refuge during wars to modern urban planning solutions. Here are ten notable underground cities from around the world, each with its unique history and significance.

Derinkuyu, Turkey Derinkuyu is one of the most famous underground cities, located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey. This ancient city extends approximately 85 meters deep and consists of 18 levels. It was originally built by the Hittites and later expanded by the Phrygians, Byzantines, and Christians. Derinkuyu could shelter up to 20,000 people and features ventilation shafts, wells, and storage areas for food and supplies, making it a remarkable feat of engineering designed for protection during invasions.

Naours, France Naours is an underground city that began as a limestone quarry in the 12th century. It evolved into a refuge for around 3,000 people during its peak in the 17th century. The tunnels, rediscovered before World War I, contain numerous rooms and galleries, many of which were used by soldiers during the war. The site is now open to visitors, showcasing its historical significance through graffiti left by troops.

Coober Pedy, Australia Known as the "Opal Capital of the World," Coober Pedy is famous for its underground homes, known as "dugouts." Established in the early 20th century, residents built their homes underground to escape the extreme heat of the Australian desert. The town features shops, churches, and even hotels all located below ground, creating a unique subterranean lifestyle.

Montreal's RESO, Canada La Ville Souterraine, or RESO, is a vast underground complex in Montreal, Canada, spanning over 32 kilometers. It connects shopping centers, hotels, and metro stations, providing a comfortable environment during harsh winters. This underground city is a bustling hub for both locals and tourists, featuring restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.

Napoli Sotterranea, Italy Beneath Naples lies Napoli Sotterranea, a network of tunnels and chambers that date back over 2,400 years. Originally created by the Greeks and expanded by the Romans, these tunnels served various purposes, including storage and shelter during World War II. The Bourbon Tunnel, built in the 19th century, is a popular attraction within this underground city.

Beijing Underground City, China Dixia Cheng, or the Beijing Underground City, was constructed during the Cold War as a fallout shelter. This extensive network of tunnels spans several kilometers beneath the city and includes living quarters, storage areas, and even a hospital. Although it is not widely open to the public, it remains a significant part of Beijing's history.

Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland Located near Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been in operation since the 13th century. The mine features an extensive underground city with chapels, sculptures, and even a museum, all carved from salt. Visitors can explore its tunnels and chambers, which reflect the rich history of salt mining in the region.

SubTropolis, Kansas City, USA SubTropolis is a massive underground business complex in Kansas City, Missouri, built within a former limestone mine. Covering over 55 million square feet, it houses various businesses and is one of the largest underground cities in the United States. The complex is designed for year-round use, providing a unique environment for commerce.

Setenil de las Bodegas, Spain This unique town is known for its houses built into and beneath large rock overhangs. The natural formations provide shelter and have been utilized for centuries, creating a picturesque and functional underground living space. Setenil de las Bodegas showcases the integration of natural landscapes with human habitation.

After the fall of the Republic, the Order attempts to secretly rebuild deep in the mountains of Alderaan under the protection of the Queen Breha Organa and her husband Bail.

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The slick marketing website for Reliance House boasts a timeless building near Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront “reimagined for modern living”.

The swanky apartments are furnished with wooden floors and sleek built-in storage (a one-bedroom flat is on the market for £114,950). But the website does not mention that five of the flats in the basement have no windows, while two more only have high level windows at street level.

The plans from the developer, Legacie Developments, however reveal that many of those living below ground in the £24m project will have to survive with little or no natural light.

Liverpool’s planners were unable to consider the lack of natural light as the project did not go through the usual approval process for new dwellings in the north-west city. Instead it was fast-tracked under controversial reforms, which allow developers to use so-called “permitted development rights” to convert offices to flats without full planning permission.

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