Real Underground Cities You Didn’t Know Exist

January 5, 2025 • 3 min read • Art Grindstone

Art Grindstone is the hard-nosed storyteller behind Unexplained.co, a veteran investigator whose life’s work sits at the crossroads of the paranormal, fringe science, and the shadows most people try not to look into. With decades spent chasing impossible stories — black-budget psychic programs, vanished Cold War experiments, desert rituals that sparked UFO waves, and the strange phenomena buried in America’s forgotten backroads — Art brings a rare combination of skepticism, awe, and journalistic precision. He’s not here to debunk. He’s not here to blindly believe. He follows the evidence wherever it leads — even when it leads someplace deeply uncomfortable. Known for his immersive, cinematic style and his ability to turn obscure research into gripping narrative, Art has built a devoted following across podcasts, long-form features, documentaries, and serialized investigations. His interviews are direct. His analysis is unflinching. His voice has become a staple in the modern paranormal renaissance — the guy people turn to when a story is too strange, too complex, or too dangerous for anyone else to touch. Off-mic, Art works with a distributed network of researchers, archivists, and field operatives who help surface the stories mainstream media ignores. On-mic, he transforms their findings into meticulous, high-impact reporting that refuses to insult the intelligence of true believers. His philosophy is simple: Take the phenomenon seriously. Treat the audience with respect. Tell the story as if the world depends on it — because sometimes it does. When Art Grindstone digs into a case, he isn’t just chasing a mystery. He’s tracing the fault lines of reality itself.

In This Report(7)

Underneath our feet lies a hidden world, teeming with life, history, and innovation. From ancient civilizations to modern urban planning, underground cities have served various purposes throughout human history. As climate change intensifies, these subterranean spaces may become more relevant than ever. Let’s explore the fascinating underground cities that exist today.

Key Takeaways

Underground living has historical roots and modern applications.
Various types of underground spaces include ancient cities, homeless communities, and retail hubs.
Future urban planning may increasingly incorporate underground designs.

Ancient Underground Cities

Many ancient underground cities were built for protection and survival. They often served as shelters during times of war or persecution.

Derinkuyu, Turkey
Napoli Sotterranea, Italy
Guanajuato, Mexico
Moose Jaw, Canada

Homeless Communities

In modern times, underground spaces have become homes for those facing hardship.

Las Vegas: Approximately 1,500 people live in the 600 miles of tunnels beneath the city.
New York City: Over 2,000 individuals reside in forgotten subway sections, often facing challenges like addiction and mental illness.

Retail and Workspace

Not all underground spaces are grim. Some are vibrant hubs of commerce and entertainment.

Shibuya Subnade, Tokyo
Reso, Montreal
Ainola, Helsinki

Incorporated Underground Cities

Some cities are entirely or predominantly underground, designed for long-term habitation.

Coober Pedy, Australia
Beijing Underground City

Underground Cities of the Future

As urban planners look to the future, underground designs are becoming more innovative.

Earthscraper, Mexico City
The Lowline, New York City
Singapore’s Underground Science City

Conclusion

The underground world is rich with history, community, and potential. As we face increasing challenges from climate change and urbanization, these hidden spaces may offer solutions for sustainable living. Whether for shelter, commerce, or recreation, underground cities are a testament to human resilience and creativity.