Finding Ancient Cities in Minecraft is a thrilling adventure, offering unique loot and a fascinating glimpse into the game's mysterious past. These sprawling underground structures, introduced in the 1.17 update, are filled with valuable resources and challenging encounters. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to successfully locate and explore these hidden wonders.
What are Ancient Cities?
Ancient Cities are massive, sprawling underground structures generated in the deepslate biome, typically below Y-level 0. They are characterized by their unique architecture, using deepslate, sculk, and other materials not found elsewhere. They're teeming with valuable loot, but also dangerous mobs, making exploration a significant challenge.
How Deep Do I Need to Dig to Find an Ancient City?
This is a key question, and the answer is: it varies. While they are typically found below Y-level 0, there's no guaranteed depth. You could stumble upon one at Y=-50, or you might need to dig much deeper. The best approach is to utilize strategies that increase your odds of finding one, as discussed below.
Where are Ancient Cities Located?
Ancient Cities are exclusively found in the deep dark biome, which is often located beneath the surface of other biomes. This means you won't find them in deserts, forests, or oceans. The deep dark biome itself is characterized by the presence of deepslate and sculk. Finding these blocks underground is a good indication you're getting closer.
What are the Best Strategies for Finding Ancient Cities?
Several strategies significantly improve your chances of discovering an Ancient City:
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Use a Deep Dark Finder: There are many data packs and mods available (though they are not officially supported by Mojang) that can help you locate ancient cities much faster. These tools usually highlight the presence of deep dark biomes or even ancient cities on your in-game map.
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Strip Mining: This reliable method involves digging a long, horizontal tunnel at a consistently low Y-level (around Y=-50 or lower). This allows you to explore a large horizontal area, increasing your chances of encountering an Ancient City. Keep your tunnel relatively narrow to minimize the effort.
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Cave Exploration: While exploring caves, particularly deep and extensive ones, you might unexpectedly stumble upon an Ancient City. Be prepared for encounters with hostile mobs.
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Focusing on Deep Slate Biomes: If you find areas rich in deepslate, you are likely near an ancient city. Using a locator or simply continuing to dig and explore in the surrounding deepslate areas can lead you to your destination.
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Using Coordinates (Bedrock Edition): In Bedrock Edition, you can use external websites or tools that provide coordinates for Ancient City locations in specific worlds. However, be aware that the reliability of these tools varies.
What are the Dangers of Ancient Cities?
Ancient Cities are not without their risks:
- Sculk Shriekers: These blocks trigger alarms, spawning Warden mobs.
- Wardens: Extremely powerful blind mobs that can deal significant damage. They are very difficult to fight, so stealth is key.
- Other Hostile Mobs: Skeletons, zombies, and other regular hostile mobs can also spawn within Ancient Cities.
Always be prepared with plenty of food, potions, and effective weapons before embarking on an Ancient City exploration.
What Loot Can I Find in Ancient Cities?
Ancient Cities are packed with valuable loot, including:
- Ancient Debris: A key ingredient for crafting Netherite tools and armor.
- Sculk Sensors: Useful for redstone contraptions.
- Various Chest Loots: Including valuable ores, diamonds, and other treasures.
Finding Ancient Cities in Minecraft requires patience and persistence, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By employing these strategies and being prepared for the challenges, you'll significantly increase your chances of discovering these fascinating underground structures. Remember to explore cautiously and bring your best equipment!
