Ağırnas Underground City is a historical subterranean settlement located in the town of Ağırnas, in the province of Kayseri, Türkiye. Ağırnas, known as the birthplace of the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, draws attention not only for its surface architecture but also for its multi-layered underground structures. Like other similar constructions in the Cappadocia region, this underground city was built to serve purposes such as defense, shelter, and daily living.
Ağırnas Underground City (Türkiye Kültür Portalı)
Location and Physical Features
The underground city is situated in the southeastern part of the town, in the Aşağı Pınar area, carved into a rocky ridge approximately 200 meters to the south. At the entrance, there is a small church, food storage rooms, stone doors, and living quarters. Inside the structure are halls up to 24 meters long and 4 meters wide, and along the main tunnel, 11 separate chambers used as storage or living areas have been identified. The tunnels end with stone-doored exits leading in different directions.
Historical Background and Periods of Use
According to archaeological and architectural evidence, some parts of the structure date back to pre-Christian times, with the most intensive use occurring between the 1st and 13th centuries CE. Usage of the site increased particularly during the Roman and Byzantine periods, and it is understood that later communities also added to the structure. Niches, wall paintings, and stone craftsmanship within the site support this historical timeline.
Architectural Features
The structure follows the architectural style of Cappadocian underground cities, with multiple rooms, stone doors, and defensive design elements. The rooms are notably more spacious compared to other examples in Cappadocia. Thanks to the ventilation shafts, prolonged habitation underground was possible. Secret passages, sealed entrances, and operational chambers highlight the defensive priorities of the design.
Historical Identity and Economic Transformation of Ağırnas
Based on historical documents and archaeological findings, Ağırnas has undergone significant demographic and economic transformation. Ottoman records from the year 1500 show that the town, then part of the Koramaz sub-district of the Kayseri Sanjak, had 53 Christian and 3 Muslim households, two mills, and four oil presses, contributing a total tax revenue of 18,000 akçes. These records indicate that Ağırnas was an important regional center in both population and economy. By the 19th century, an increase in the Muslim population reflects demographic change. Due to the area's infertile volcanic soil, residents turned to alternative professions for livelihood. In the 16th and 17th centuries, textile production became prominent. The town became known for producing fine white cotton fabrics, referred to as Ağırnas boğası, which were in high demand in European markets, especially in England, France, and the Netherlands. Additionally, Ağırnas craftsmen specialized in masonry, plasterwork, decorative painting, and construction, contributing to major building projects across the Ottoman Empire in cities such as Istanbul, Cairo, Damascus, and Aleppo. These experiences brought back to Ağırnas enriched its cultural fabric, influencing everything from architecture and spoken language to culinary traditions and daily life.
Education and Cultural Development
The first school in Ağırnas was opened in 1876. A new school building, constructed in 1908 by Mustafa Ağırnaslı, is now used as a public library. The local dialect closely resembles Istanbul Turkish, which is considered a result of intense social and cultural interactions.
Opening to Tourism and Current Status
In recent years, Ağırnas Underground City has been opened to visitors following cleaning and restoration efforts. The discovery of passages connected to the house where Mimar Sinan was born adds to its appeal among both local and international tourists. Mapping and scientific documentation of the site are ongoing.
