Page 87 - READING COMPANION TO ENGLISH EXAMS

5.2 ICONIC LANDMARKS AND DESTINATIONS

Unveiling the Mysteries of Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu underground city, located in Cappadocia, Türkiye, is a notable landmark and tourist destination,
offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. As they walk around the
(1)
city, they may feel as though they have travelled back in time due to its narrow corridors, winding tunnels, and
intricately designed rooms adorned with stunning frescoes. This subterranean complex is an engineering
(2)
(3)
marvel, made up of 18 levels and extending to a depth of 85 metres, making it one of the largest of its kind.
With the capacity to house up to 20,000 people, the city served as a refuge during times of invasion and
(4)
provided protection from various threats. To survive and thrive in such a challenging environment, the ancient
residents of Derinkuyu had to think up innovative solutions to meet their basic needs. Therefore, the creators
(5)
of this underground city, believed to be the Phrygians, skilfully carved out a labyrinthine structure that is both
(6)
awe-inspiring and functional. By wisely placing air shafts and wells throughout the underground city, they
(7)
ensured a constant supply of fresh air and water, prioritising the well-being of the city’s inhabitants. The city
was independent, as it had a variety of rooms serving different purposes, including cellars, kitchens, storage
(8)
rooms, stables, churches, and even schools. These rooms catered for the diverse needs and interests of the
(9)
underground community. The size and architecture of the city showcase (10) the advanced knowledge and skills
of its creators.
a Choose the synonyms of the highlighted and numbered words and phrases in the passage.
1. A admire B explore C question D overlook

2. A spoil B disfigure C conceal D embellish
3. A flat B shallow C sunken D private

4. A shelter B entrance C threat D cave
5. A submit B compose C devise D construct

6. A awkwardly B ingeniously C clumsily D rationally
7. A smoothly B fiercely C incidentally D strategically

8. A autonomous B tranquil C contemporary D remote
9. A public B union C district D society

10. A feature B exhibit C advertise D comprise

b Complete the sentences with the correct forms of the words given below.

community skilfully wisely
adorn independent subterranean

1. Investing in the preservation and promotion of national landmarks is a(n) decision for any
country, as these landmarks are significant symbols, representing a country’s values and traditions.
2. Globally, there are countless captivating architectural structures, highlighting impressive technical
and attracting tourists through their artistic and engineering excellence.
3. Even though our bodies are not designed to live , some ancient societies resided
underground, but solely in times of emergencies and when they had no alternative.
4. The Golden Gate Bridge, with its elegant suspension cables and striking red colour, acts as a magnificent
to the San Francisco Bay.
5. Due to the extreme altitude and hazardous conditions, it is advised that visitors do not attempt to climb
Mount Everest .
6. The Taj Mahal is a well-known tourist attraction due to its stunning architecture, and it also has great
value for the locals as a symbol of love.
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