The underground cities of the Byzantine Empire

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Veronica Kalas |

TED-Ed

• March 2024

The breathtaking geological formations of Cappadocia are one of the most astonishing landscapes on Earth. Also known as “fairy chimneys,” this impressive terrain hides an equally remarkable feat of pre-modern engineering: a network of extensive underground cities stretching deep below the surface. Who inhabited these cities, and why? Veronica Kalas uncovers the secrets of this buried history. [Directed by Serin İnan, Tolga Yıldız, Kozmonot Animation Studio, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Tolga Yıldız].