Explain why ancient civilizations built underground cities.

To protect themselves from enemies

Many ancient civilizations built underground cities in order to protect themselves from potential enemies. These cities offered an undeniable strategic advantage in case of an attack, as they were often difficult to spot and reach for attackers. The narrow passages and complex mazes of the underground cities made it difficult, if not impossible, for invaders to progress without prior knowledge of the terrain. Furthermore, civilizations could plan sophisticated defense systems, such as traps, secret doors, or ambushes, to repel attackers and defend their territory. The inhabitants of the underground cities could take refuge in case of an attack and wait for the aggressors to give up or be forced to retreat. These structures therefore provided effective protection against external threats and allowed the inhabitants to live in relative safety in a hostile environment.

To protect oneself from extreme weather conditions

Ancient civilizations used to build underground cities to protect themselves from extreme weather conditions. These underground environments offered a more stable and moderate temperature compared to the extreme variations on the surface. The tunnels and underground chambers acted as natural insulators, protecting the inhabitants from episodes of intense heat or extreme cold. Furthermore, building underground also provided protection from storms, blizzards, sandstorms, or other dangerous weather conditions. Ancient civilizations thus adapted their habitats to cope with the whims of nature, ensuring the safety and comfort of their populations in the face of hostile elements.

To store food items

Ancient civilizations built underground cities to store food for several reasons. Firstly, the constant temperature and darkness of underground environments provided ideal conditions for preserving perishable foods such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. The relative coolness and controlled humidity of the underground helped slow down the food deterioration process, thus extending their shelf life. Additionally, by storing food underground, ancient civilizations could protect their provisions from pests and weather conditions that could damage crops stored on the surface. Furthermore, underground cities also freed up valuable surface space for other uses, such as housing or agriculture. In summary, the construction of underground cities for food storage offered ancient civilizations a practical and effective solution to preserve their provisions and ensure food security.

For ceremonial or religious purposes

Ancient civilizations used to build underground cities for ceremonial or religious purposes. These underground cities often served as places of worship or religious rituals. The underground spaces provided a closed and intimate environment for the practice of special ceremonies or worship dedicated to particular deities. The walls of underground cities were sometimes decorated with frescoes depicting religious scenes or sacred symbols. Some underground spaces were reserved for ritual sacrifices or divination practices. By isolating these activities in underground locations, ancient civilizations could enhance the sacred and mysterious nature of their religious practices.