kleti

Kleti, also known as cellars or basements, are spaces typically located below ground level in a building. Their primary function is often storage, utilizing the stable cool temperatures to preserve food items like preserves, root vegetables, and wine. In older homes, kleti served as essential pantries before the advent of modern refrigeration.

Beyond storage, kleti can be adapted for various uses. Many are finished to provide additional living space, such as a recreation room, home office, or extra bedroom. In some regions, particularly in colder climates, kleti may also house essential building infrastructure like furnaces, water heaters, and electrical panels. Their subterranean location offers a degree of insulation, contributing to a building's energy efficiency. Access to a kleti is usually through an internal staircase or an external door. The construction of kleti involves excavating the ground and building walls, often from concrete or stone, before the building's foundation is laid. Ventilation can be a concern in kleti, and measures are often taken to ensure proper airflow and prevent dampness.