Exploring the acoustic identity of Derinkuyu Underground City

Sounds play a significant role in shaping the identity of spaces and places, yet the acoustic environment of underground cities remains relatively unexplored in the existing literature. Derinkuyu Underground City stands as a prominent cultural heritage site, boasting a capacity of 20,000 people and serving as one of the largest underground cities globally. While geological and structural studies have been conducted on such sites, investigations into indoor acoustics, a crucial aspect of the physical environment, are notably lacking. This study initiates an initial examination of the sound environment within Derinkuyu Underground City, aiming to analyse its features acoustically. Undertaking a PhD study, our research endeavours to gather essential data essential for the preservation of the site's current acoustic environment as a cultural heritage site while also generating valuable insights for the design and construction of future underground cities. In this paper, we present a preliminary assessment of the typologies of various spaces within Derinkuyu Underground City, exploring their unique acoustic features. By characterizing and understanding the acoustic properties of diverse spaces within the underground city, we seek to understand how acoustic might contribute to the identity of these spaces and provide foundational knowledge for both preservation efforts and future underground urban design initiatives.