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Istanbul, the city of many secrets, is home to some of the most incredible cisterns in the world. One of the most popular and mesmerizing cisterns is the Basilica Cistern. Built during the reign of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern is a unique underground structure that is a must-see for any traveler visiting Istanbul.
In this blog, I will explore the history, design, and layout of the Basilica Cistern as well as provide tips for visiting this ancient wonder.
Introduction to the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Cistern, is the largest of the many cisterns located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, and it is located beneath the Stoa Basilica on the site of the former city of Byzantium. The Basilica Cistern is a unique underground structure, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul.
The Basilica Cistern is a large, underground reservoir that was built to store water for the city of Constantinople. It has a capacity of 100,000 cubic meters and is currently filled with filtered rainwater. The cistern is supported by 336 columns, each of which is 9 meters high. The ceiling is supported by a series of arches, and the overall design of the cistern is quite impressive.
History of the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century by Byzantine Emperor Justinian to provide water for the city of Constantinople. It was originally known as the “Great Cistern” and was located beneath the Stoa Basilica on the site of the former city of Byzantium. The cistern was used to store water and supply it to the city.
The cistern was rediscovered in 1545 by the French ambassador to the Ottoman Empire, Pierre Gilles. He wrote about his discovery in his book, “The Antiquities of Constantinople”, and it was the first time the cistern was documented.
The Basilica Cistern was restored in 1985 by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. The restoration included the installation of pumps and filters to ensure the water quality of the cistern, and the entire project was completed in 1987.
Since then, the Basilica Cistern has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. It is visited by thousands of tourists every year, and it is a great way to learn about the city’s ancient history.
The Design and Layout of the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a large, underground reservoir that was built to store water for the city of Constantinople. It is an impressive structure, with a capacity of 100,000 cubic meters and 336 columns that are 9 meters high. The ceiling is supported by a series of arches, and the overall design of the cistern is quite impressive.
The cistern is divided into two main sections: the Upper Cistern and the Lower Cistern. The Upper Cistern is the larger of the two, and it is where the majority of the columns are located. The Lower Cistern is smaller and is located beneath the Upper Cistern.
It is also home to two unique features: the Medusa head and the upside-down head of Medusa. The Medusa head is located on the north wall of the cistern, and it is believed to be a Roman copy of a Greek original. The upside-down head of Medusa is located on the south wall, and it is believed to be a representation of the mythical monster’s power over evil.
Exploring the Ancient Wonders of the Basilica Cistern
Exploring the Basilica Cistern is an incredible experience. The cistern is filled with filtered rainwater, and the sound of dripping water echoes throughout the chamber. The columns and arches of the cistern create a majestic atmosphere, and the Medusa heads are fascinating to see.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the cistern, and the tour will provide an in-depth look at the history of the cistern and its unique features. During the tour, visitors can also take photos and explore the cistern at their own pace.
The guided tour is a great way to learn more about the history of the cistern and its unique features. It is also a great way to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern.
Tips for Visiting the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a popular attraction in Istanbul, and it is a great way to explore the city’s history and culture. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your visit to the Basilica Cistern:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. The Basilica Cistern is an underground structure, and it can be quite damp and slippery at times.
- Bring a camera. The Basilica Cistern is a great place to take photos, and it is a great way to capture the beauty of the cistern.
- Take a guided tour. The guided tour is a great way to learn more about the history of the cistern and its unique features.
- Bring a flashlight. The cistern is quite dark, and a flashlight will come in handy when exploring the cistern.
- Buy tickets online. To avoid long lines and wait times, it is best to buy tickets online.
Things to Do and See at the Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is filled with incredible sights and activities. Here are some of the things to do and see at the Basilica Cistern:
- Take a guided tour. A guided tour is a great way to learn more about the history of the cistern and its unique features.
- Explore the Medusa heads. The Medusa heads are one of the most fascinating features of the cistern and are definitely worth exploring.
- Take photos. The Basilica Cistern is a great place to take photos and capture the beauty of the cistern.
- Enjoy the atmosphere. Enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of the cistern, and take in the beauty of the columns and arches.
- Visit the nearby attractions
- . The Basilica Cistern is located near many popular attractions, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
Popular Attractions in the Nearby Area
The Basilica Cistern is located near many popular attractions in Istanbul. Here are some of the popular attractions located in the nearby area:
- Blue Mosque. The Blue Mosque is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul, and it is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture.
- Hagia Sophia. Hagia Sophia is a former Byzantine church and one of the oldest and most important historical sites in Istanbul.
- Topkapi Palace. Topkapi Palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, and it is a great place to learn more about the Ottoman Empire.
- Grand Bazaar. The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and it is a great place to shop for souvenirs and Turkish handicrafts.
- Spice Bazaar. The Spice Bazaar is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Istanbul, and it is a great place to buy spices and traditional Turkish food.
Other Underground Cisterns in Istanbul
The Basilica Cistern is not the only cistern in Istanbul. There are many other underground cisterns in Istanbul, and they are all worth exploring. Here are some of the other underground cisterns in Istanbul:
- Binbirdirek Cistern. The Binbirdirek Cistern is located beneath the Grand Bazaar and is one of the oldest cisterns in Istanbul.
- Theodosius Cistern. The Theodosius Cistern is located beneath the Hagia Sophia and is the second-largest cistern in Istanbul.
- Valens Aqueduct. The Valens Aqueduct is a Roman aqueduct located near the Hippodrome and is one of the most impressive sights in Istanbul.
Conclusion
The Basilica Cistern is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul, and it is a great way to explore the city’s ancient history. The cistern is an impressive structure, with a capacity of 100,000 cubic meters and 336 columns that are 9 meters high. The cistern is also home to two unique features: the Medusa head and the upside-down head of Medusa.
Exploring the Basilica Cistern is an incredible experience, and visitors can take a guided tour of the cistern to learn more about its history and unique features. The Basilica Cistern is also located near many popular attractions in Istanbul, such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace.
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in Istanbul, then the Basilica Cistern is a must-see. It is a great way to explore the city’s ancient history and culture, and it is a great way to experience the enchanting atmosphere of the cistern.