BASILICA CISTERN

The Basilica Cistern, also known as “Yerebatan Sarnıcı” (Cistern of the Sunken Palace), is one of Istanbul’s most captivating ancient structures. Built during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, this massive underground water reservoir was used to store and supply water to the Great Palace and other buildings in the area. Today, the cistern is an intriguing tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its mysterious ambiance, dim lighting, and stunning architecture.

Location and Accessibility
The Basilica Cistern is conveniently located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district, a short walk from other popular landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The exact address is:

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/Istanbul, Turkey

Visitors can reach the Basilica Cistern via public transportation. The T1 tram line stops at Sultanahmet Station, just a few minutes’ walk from the cistern entrance. The area is well-signposted, so tourists can easily find their way from other major attractions nearby.

Entrance Fees and Visiting Hours
To help maintain this historic site, there is an entrance fee for visitors. The fees and visiting hours are updated regularly, so it’s recommended to check in advance.

Entrance Fee:

Approximately 900 Turkish Lira (TRY) per person (subject to change).
There is usually a separate line for tourists, and it’s a good idea to visit early in the day to avoid large crowds.

Hours of Operation:

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, though last entry is typically around 6:30 PM.
During public holidays and peak tourist seasons, the hours may vary slightly, so it’s advisable to confirm beforehand, especially if you are visiting during a holiday season.

Architectural Features and History
The Basilica Cistern spans nearly 9,800 square meters (105,000 square feet) and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters (21 million gallons) of water. It’s built with impressive engineering skill and artistry that has withstood centuries of use and even earthquakes. Here are some key highlights of its structure and design:

Columns and Vaulted Ceilings: The cistern contains 336 marble columns arranged in 12 rows, each row containing 28 columns spaced approximately 5 meters (16 feet) apart. Each column stands about 9 meters (30 feet) tall, supporting a series of vaulted ceilings. The architecture is both functional and ornate, with many columns featuring carved details, such as Corinthian and Doric styles. The dim lighting inside creates a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere that enhances the visitor experience.

Medusa Heads: Perhaps the most famous feature within the Basilica Cistern is the two Medusa heads used as bases for two of the columns in the northwest corner. One head is positioned sideways, while the other is placed upside down. These heads are thought to have been repurposed from earlier Roman structures, as was common practice during the time. The exact reason for their orientation remains a mystery, but some believe it was to counteract the mythical power of Medusa’s gaze or simply to fit the columns’ support.

Carp Fish and Mystical Waters: The cistern’s shallow waters are home to a variety of fish, primarily carp, which can be seen swimming among the columns. The presence of fish has both a practical and symbolic purpose; it was once thought that fish could help detect poison in the water, although today they serve more to enhance the cistern’s mystical ambiance.

Brick Walls and Waterproofing: The cistern’s brick walls are approximately 4 meters (13 feet) thick and were waterproofed with a special mortar coating. This sturdy construction has helped the cistern endure for centuries, including through major earthquakes that have affected the city over the years.

Historical Significance and Purpose
The Basilica Cistern was originally constructed to provide a water supply to the Byzantine palaces and surrounding buildings. Water was delivered from the Belgrade Forest via the Valens Aqueduct and stored in the cistern, ensuring a steady supply for the palace and other important buildings in case of siege or drought.

During the Ottoman Empire, the cistern was largely abandoned as the Ottomans preferred direct-flow systems for their water needs. However, it was rediscovered in the 16th century, and eventually opened to the public in the 1980s after extensive renovations. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction, with atmospheric lighting and walkways that allow visitors to explore this architectural marvel.

Visitor Tips and Etiquette
When visiting the Basilica Cistern, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to make the most of your experience:

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded, providing a quieter experience. Visiting during off-peak seasons can also help you avoid long lines.
Photography: Photography is allowed, and the dim lighting inside makes for stunning, atmospheric photos. However, flash photography may be restricted to avoid disturbing other visitors and the historic structure itself.
Footwear and Walkways: The cistern can be damp, and some walkways may be slippery. Wearing comfortable, non-slip footwear is recommended to ensure a safe visit.
Respect for the Site: As an ancient historical site, visitors should be mindful of preserving the cistern’s atmosphere. Avoid loud noises and be respectful of other visitors and the pr
eservation efforts of this unique site.
Nearby Attractions
The Basilica Cistern is surrounded by several other famous sites, making it an ideal stop on a day of exploring Istanbul’s historic district. After visiting the cistern, you can walk to these popular locations:

Hagia Sophia: Located just across the street, Hagia Sophia is a marvel of Byzantine architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once a church, then a mosque, and now again a functioning mosque, Hagia Sophia is known for its vast dome and ancient mosaics.
Blue Mosque: This iconic mosque is nearby, with its stunning blue-tiled interior and impressive domes. It’s still a functioning mosque, so it’s important to check prayer times before visiting.
Topkapi Palace: Just a short walk away, Topkapi Palace was the residence of Ottoman sultans and includes a treasure trove of artifacts, including sacred relics, jewelry, and weapons.
Hippodrome of Constantinople: Sultanahmet Square itself was once the site of the Byzantine Hippodrome, where chariot races and public events were held. Today, several historical monuments, including the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column, remain.