Nooshabad Underground City Ouyi

"Visited this amazing city just now! 4 kilometers long, although only 800 meters is accessible for visitors. 23 m underground in some parts, with three levels. Cool and surprisingly, fresh air. Must see!"

Esmaeili-FreePalestine

"Sorry but if you ever before visited an underground city, this one is not worth it. If it is your first, then you can give it a chance. It is rather small visiting area, we were done in less than 15min. The history sound interesting but the experience is not. You see only the first level, maybe in the future they will expand it to 2nd and 3rd level."

Marko Divkovic

"Until 2005, no one knew about this underground city. A person digging a well on their property stumbled upon it, and that's when the city of Ouyi came to light. Today, visitors can purchase tickets and explore its underground tunnels at their leisure.

We've become so accustomed to modern cities and skyscrapers that it's easy to take advanced construction techniques for granted. But in the Sassanian era, such technology didn't exist. This city was entirely hand-dug, a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Beyond its construction, its architecture and function are truly astonishing.

The city is divided into three levels, each with numerous tunnels and chambers interconnected by vertical shafts. These shafts, or canals, served as both passageways and ventilation systems.

Originally built as a defense mechanism during the Sassanian period, the city provided a hidden refuge and escape route. As we wander through the tunnels, we can't help but imagine the people who sought shelter here.

The city is called Ouyi, which means "hey" in the local dialect. One theory suggests that people would call out "ouyi" to locate each other in the dark tunnels. Another theory proposes that the name was given to the city during its construction.

The first level is a maze of tunnels, perfect for hiding and escaping. The second and third levels seem to have been designed for habitation, and it's likely that food and supplies were stored here.

The city's lighting system is fascinating. Niches in the walls once held oil lamps, providing illumination. The ventilation system was equally impressive, utilizing U-shaped shafts and natural air pressure to circulate fresh air.

There are two main entrances to the city. The first leads to a smaller area, and experts believe it may have been reserved for the city's ruler. The second entrance, accessed via a flight of 50 steps, opens into a larger space and was likely used by the general population. Other entrances have been sealed over time.

At the heart of the city, there's a large open space that some scholars believe may have been used as a fire temple.

Visiting the underground city of Ouyi is a unique experience. As you explore its damp tunnels and narrow passages, you can't help but feel a connection to the people who once sought refuge here."

pegah esmaili