As we walk through our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the secrets that lie beneath our feet. The allure of mystery and the thrill of discovery can be intoxicating, drawing us to explore the unknown. And what better way to experience this than by venturing into subterranean cities?
In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to discover some of the most fascinating subterranean wonders around the world, from ancient underground cities in Italy to modern underground metropolises like Montreal.
The Fascination with Subterranean Cities
So, why do we find these hidden worlds so captivating? It’s not just about the thrill of adventure; it’s also about the sense of mystery and discovery. We’re drawn to the idea that beneath our feet lies a world that’s been deliberately concealed, waiting for us to uncover its secrets.
This desire is rooted in our primal nature, where we’re naturally curious about what lies beyond the surface. Whether it’s the allure of hidden treasures or the thrill of exploring unknown territories, subterranean cities tap into this innate curiosity.
Subterranean Cities in Italy: A Rich History
Italy is home to some of the most impressive subterranean cities in the world. Let’s take a journey through these underground wonders:
Naples Underground, Campania
The Naples subterrains are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient civilizations. The first excavations date back around 5,000 years ago, with the Greeks extracting blocks of tuff from beneath the surface for use in building city walls and temples.
The Romans built an impressive network of tunnels and aqueducts, including gullies that allowed only human passage. These narrow tunnels often branched off in all directions, feeding fountains and homes throughout the city. Remnants of ancient waterproofing can still be seen today.
During World War II, the caves were used as air raid shelters, where people rushed down to escape bombings that hit the city. The caves have been illuminated and set up to accommodate many people who fled at the sound of the alarm. Artifacts, graffiti, and various objects in excellent condition remain, offering a glimpse into life and tragedy.
Rome Underground, Lazio
The Eternal City conceals many treasures beneath its visible surface. One anonymous building on Largo Leopardi conceals a small marvel: the Auditorium of Mecenate, dating back to the 1st century BC and likely part of a residential complex.
The Colombario of Pomponio Hylas is a sepulchral monument characterized by rich niches, where ashes were placed. The Hypogeum of Via Livenza is an impressive testimony to art history, but its function remains unclear. Probably, it was a ninfeo (a sacred building dedicated to a nymph), given the scenes depicted in the beautiful frescoes.
The Underground of Santa Cecilia beneath the eponymous basilica likely contains the remains of the saint’s own house, where she suffered martyrdom. The bunker of Mussolini and that of the Savoia family are also fascinating aspects of Rome’s underground history.
The Catacombs of San Callisto
The Catacombs of San Callisto are the oldest and best-preserved on the Via Appia, dating back to around 100 AD. Along the tunnels, you can find the Crypt of Santa Cecilia, with frescoes from the 5th to 6th centuries, and the Crypt of the Popes, known as “Little Vatican” because it housed a dozen popes.
The Mitreo and the Paleochristian Church of San Clemente are located about 20 meters below the current basilica. The Mitreo features stone benches where initiates were welcomed and a niche with an image of the god who killed a bull. You can find the first written curse on a wall in the world: “Figli di * *, tirate! Gosmario, Albertello, tirate! Carvoncello!”
The Labirinto di Porsenna, Tuscany
At the foot of Chiusi Cathedral lies a mythical labyrinth called the Labirinto di Porsenna, believed to have been built by the Etruscan king Porsenna. The structure was used for water supply and drainage and is still not fully explored.
Some scholars propose that it might be the famous tomb of Porsenna described by Pliny the Elder. Another interesting location are the so-called Catacombs of Santa Mustiola and Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, consisting of 200 meters of tunnels along their sides, where early Christian toscans were buried.
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Camerano, Marche
The name likely derives from “cámara,” meaning large and dark room. Indeed, beneath the town of Camerano lies a network of caves that are only partially explored as new tunnels emerge.
Walking through the city’s streets, you walk on top of rooms, hypogea (fully man-made underground structures), temples, ramified galleries on multiple levels, and more. The environment is rich in niches and vaults (cupola, semi-circular, and barrel-shaped), columns, and circular rooms.
The surroundings also feature symbols, bas-reliefs, and incisions that permeate the area. A true subterranean world that remains unknown.
Edinburgh Underground, UK
Beneath Scotland’s capital city lies a seven-century world of damp and darkness. The Edinburgh Vaults, also known as South Bridge Vaults, are a series of chambers carved into the 19th arches of South Bridge.
They were opened in 1788 during a period of rapid urban growth, initially built to house taverns, shoemakers, bartenders, metalworkers, and other artisans, as well as storage facilities for illicit goods. The area later became the home of Edinburgh’s poorest residents, transforming into a patchwork of pubs and brothels.
Rumors abound about the presence of ghosts… Do you still want to take a look?
Montreal Underground City, Canada
An enormous labyrinth stretches beneath Montreal’s downtown area, surrounding its central core. The Réso network is named after the French word for “network” and contains numerous shops, restaurants, hotels, galleries, cinemas, seven metro stops, a library, and even apartments.
Construction began in 1962 to alleviate traffic and offer an underground route, particularly useful during Canada’s harsh winters. Today, Réso comprises 32 km of tunnels with over 120 external access points.
Conclusion
Subterranean cities are more than just hidden wonders; they’re gateways to the past, offering a glimpse into the lives and cultures of our ancestors. Whether it’s the ancient Greeks extracting blocks of tuff or the modern-day inhabitants of Montreal navigating their underground metropolis, these subterranean cities remind us that there’s always more to discover beneath our feet.
Fascinating Facts
- The oldest known subterranean city is believed to be the ancient city of Pompeii, which was buried under volcanic ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD.
- Some subterranean cities are built for specific purposes, such as the Labirinto di Porsenna, which was used for water supply and drainage, or the Catacombs of San Callisto, which were used as tombs for early Christians.
- Subterranean cities can be found in many different parts of the world, from ancient civilizations like Egypt to modern-day metropolises like Montreal.
- The construction of subterranean cities often requires innovative engineering solutions, such as waterproofing and ventilation systems, to create habitable environments.
- Some subterranean cities have their own unique ecosystems, with microclimates and habitats that support a wide variety of plants and animals.
Visiting Subterranean Cities
If you’re interested in exploring subterranean cities for yourself, there are many options available around the world. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Research before you go: Make sure you understand the history and significance of the subterranean city you plan to visit.
- Choose a reputable guide or tour operator: Ensure that your guide is knowledgeable and experienced, and that they follow safety guidelines.
- Be prepared for physical challenges: Subterranean cities can be physically demanding, with narrow tunnels, low ceilings, and uneven terrain.
- Respect the site’s history and cultural significance: Be mindful of the cultural and historical context of the subterranean city you’re visiting, and respect any rules or regulations in place.
Conclusion
Subterranean cities are a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering insights into the lives and cultures of our ancestors. Whether you’re exploring ancient underground wonders or modern-day metropolises, these hidden worlds remind us that there’s always more to discover beneath our feet. So why not take a journey into the unknown and explore one of these incredible subterranean cities for yourself?
