Çeşka Yeraltı Şehri, Yozgat merkezinin 3 kilometre kuzeyinde Kirazlı Göleti'nin üzerindeki tepeye oyulmuş çok katmanlı bir yerleşimdir; Frig, Roma ve Bizans dönemlerine ait seramik kalıntıları, tonozlu odaları ve kaya mezarlarıyla dikkat çeker.
Çeşka Underground City sits at the very summit of a hill rising just north of Kirazlı Pond, approximately 3 kilometers northeast of Yozgat city center. Carved into the rock, this settlement occupies a dominant position commanding the surrounding landscape. The exact date of construction remains unknown, but plain, unglazed Roman and Byzantine pottery fragments alongside painted Phrygian ceramics discovered among the ruins at the base of the hill indicate that the site was used by various civilizations across thousands of years.
It has been determined that the underground city was accessed through three separate entrances. The main entrance gate on the northwest side is currently closed. The second entrance to the south features a two-story space carved into the rock, but half of the structure has collapsed; passage through the galleries here is impossible as they are partially filled. This section consists of three rooms with a second story above them; a 1.80-meter-tall niche in the eastern room and a ventilation shaft in the western room are notable features. The third entrance to the north is a narrow passage reached by crawling through a deteriorated gallery mouth. After crawling for about 5 meters, you reach a rectangular room, which leads into a large hall with a vaulted ceiling. This hall opens into two large rooms, two small rooms, and two opposing gallery doors. The average ceiling height is 1.30 meters, meaning you will need to stoop low as you move through.
Large and small rock-cut tombs have also been identified on the uppermost section of the underground city. In 2008, the Yozgat Museum Directorate conducted a clearance operation in the galleries. Officially, the site has not yet undergone large-scale excavations or received regular visitor infrastructure, so it should not be compared to major tourist underground cities like Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı. Çeşka is primarily a destination for curious independent explorers and those who manage to find a local guide.
Guide's Note
What is Çeşka Underground City?
Located at the very summit of a high hill north of Kirazlı Pond in Yozgat, Çeşka is a multi-layered, rock-carved settlement. The hill's commanding view of the surrounding countryside suggests that the location was chosen for defense. Roman, Byzantine, and Phrygian pottery sherds found at the base of the hill indicate that the site was utilized over thousands of years. Unlike sites like Derinkuyu, it has not been fully uncovered through large-scale excavations; it remains largely in its natural, partially explored state.
How to Get There?
It is located about 3 kilometers from Yozgat city center, north of Kirazlı Pond. There are no public transport connections, so you need to go by private vehicle or taxi. There is no marked trail leading up the hill; the path is usually found by asking locals for directions. You will need to park your vehicle at the foot of the hill and hike the rest of the way.
How Much Time Should You Spend?
About 1 to 2 hours is sufficient, including the climb up the hill, exploring the accessible galleries, and returning. Visitors wishing to take photos and admire the scenery may want to stay a bit longer. It serves as a short stop that can easily fit into a day trip alongside other sights in central Yozgat.
Things to Keep in Mind
Some of the entrances are closed or partially collapsed. The third entrance on the north side requires crawling through a narrow passage with a worn gallery mouth. The average ceiling height in the main hall is about 1.30 meters, so you will need to stoop while walking. Rather than entering alone, go with someone familiar with the area if possible. Wearing sturdy shoes, bringing a flashlight, and wearing old clothes will make your visit much easier.
Best Photo Spots
The summit of the hill offers wide panoramic views of Kirazlı Pond and the surrounding steppe landscape. Inside the gallery, the vaulted main hall and carved niches provide interesting frames for detailed shots. Drone photography in this area is also popular on social media.
How to Add to Your Itinerary
You can add this site to the afternoon of a day spent exploring the historic mansions and museums in Yozgat city center. If planned together with Çamlık National Park or other downtown stops, you can experience both the natural and historical sides of Yozgat in a single day.
Where to Stay?
There are no accommodation options directly around Çeşka Underground City; staying at hotels or guesthouses in Yozgat city center is the most practical choice. Staying close to the center provides easy access both to this site and to the city's other attractions.
This content originates from neresigezilir.com.tr and may not be copied without permission.
Çeşka Underground City Videos
Çeşka Underground City videos load when you open this section to keep the page fast.
Show videos
FAQ
Updated:
