Located in Saratlı town of Aksaray, Saint Mercurius Underground City is a seven-story structure dating back to the 250s AD; it contains traces of early Christian life with its kitchen, church, and tombs.
Located in Saratlı town of Aksaray, carved into volcanic tuff rocks, the Saint Mercurius Underground City is named after Saint Mercurius, a Cappadocian Christian commander who lived between 225-250 AD. This structure, one of the largest underground cities in the Cappadocia region, was used as a refuge by the local people during the early Christian period, an underground settlement where a complete living arrangement was established.
Three of the seven floors of the structure have been cleared and opened to visitors. Entry to the city is provided through a Seljuk-era caravanserai known locally as Develik. Inside, there are spaces bearing traces of daily life such as a kitchen, a drinking water well, a church, and tombs. In particular, the 37 infant graves identified within the structure make this area extremely valuable archaeologically. The site, which accepts Müzekart and has a paid entrance, continues to be one of Aksaray's most striking cultural stops.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Aksaray, Historical Places, Historical places in Aksaray, Ulu Mosque (Karamanoğlu Mehmed Bey Mosque) – Aksaray.
Guide's Note
Saint Mercurius Underground City is located within Saratlı Town on the Aksaray-Nevşehir route, and visitors note that access to the site is quite easy. This underground city, which can be entered with a Müzekart, can be described as a relatively quiet spot that the majority of Cappadocia visitors have not yet discovered. The corridors are quite narrow and low; this directly conveys the living conditions of the people of that period. Visitors report that they can observe traces of ancient life in detail here.
There are local vendors selling handicrafts at the entrance and exit. Since the entrance and exit doors are in separate locations, exploring the site follows a one-way route.
- Navigation alert: The point directed by Google Maps corresponds to the exit door; the entrance is a little further ahead.
- Physical conditions: The interior is narrow and has low ceilings; it may be challenging for visitors with limited mobility.
When to Visit?
The ideal times to visit Saint Mercurius Underground City are April-May and September-October. During these months, the Aksaray region offers a mild climate, roads are less crowded, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak.
Even if it's hot outside in the summer, the temperature inside the underground city remains constant, offering a refreshing experience. In winter, access to the region can sometimes be difficult. If you prefer to go on a weekday instead of a weekend, you will have the opportunity to explore the area more peacefully.
How to Get There?
The underground city is located approximately 40-50 km from Aksaray city center, in Saratlı town, Gülağaç district. Following the highway from Aksaray towards Gülağaç is sufficient; once you reach Saratlı, the site can be easily found with directional signs.
Private car is the most comfortable option, but there are also regular minibus services from Aksaray bus station to Gülağaç. For transfers from Gülağaç to Saratlı, you can use taxis or local shuttle services. For those who want to take a taxi from Aksaray city center, day trip options can also be considered; these tours are often combined with Ihlara Valley and surrounding areas.
Who is Saint Mercurius?
Saint Mercurius was a Roman military commander born in Cappadocia, who lived between 225-250 AD. He was persecuted and martyred during the Roman Empire for embracing the Christian faith. Mercurius, recognized as a saint in Christian tradition, gave his name to this underground city and the church within it.
The region's deep connection with early Christian history makes the area important not only archaeologically but also religiously and culturally. The underground city is considered one of the structures used as a refuge by Christian communities during periods of oppression.
Photo Spots
The underground city, with its corridors where natural light barely penetrates and its carved tuff walls, offers unique shots for photography enthusiasts. The Develik Caravanserai entrance creates an impressive frame with its Seljuk stonework; be sure to photograph this spot.
Inside, in the narrow corridors, a wide-angle lens or additional lighting (flashlight or external light source) for a phone camera is very helpful. The carved details in the church and tomb chambers are extremely interesting for close-up shots. Before your visit, make sure your camera batteries and storage space are full.
Things to Consider Before Visiting
It is strongly recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes when descending into the underground city. Corridors can be narrow and ceiling heights variable; tall visitors should be especially careful.
Since the interior is quite dim, carrying a flashlight or phone light will make the visit easier. Entry with wheelchairs and strollers is not suitable; the area is not conducive to such equipment. Before visiting, do not forget to confirm current opening hours and fee information from official channels. Müzekart holders can benefit from discounted or free entry.
Combine with the Surroundings: Route Suggestion
Saint Mercurius Underground City can be combined with other important points in Aksaray to create a great day trip route. You can go to Saratlı early in the morning to visit the underground city and then proceed to Ihlara Valley; the distance between the two points is quite reasonable.
For those who want to add Selime Cathedral to their itinerary, these three stops together create an excellent Cappadocia-Aksaray tour. Stopping by the Aksaray Museum on the way back to Aksaray city center also offers an experience that complements the region's history. To comfortably complete this entire route, we recommend carrying enough water and light snacks with you.
What to Eat in the Region?
Since Saratlı town is a small settlement, comprehensive dining options near the area are quite limited. It would be more practical to eat in the Gülağaç district center or Aksaray city center before your visit.
Aksaray cuisine reflects the simple and satisfying flavors of Central Anatolia. Pottery kebab, mantı (dumplings), and local soups are among the tastes you will frequently encounter in the region. Homemade dishes cooked in restaurants in Aksaray city center also offer consistent quality. You might consider rewarding yourself with a meal at a city center restaurant after a long day of walking and exploration.
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