Book your skip the line tickets to explore the famous Basilica Cistern, one of the largest & most popular cisterns located in Istanbul
Witness the Medusa heads; one of the three Gorgons with snakes in place of hair that could turn anyone into stone
With raised wooden platforms, vaulted ceiling, and aesthetic beauty, the Basilica Cistern reflects the history and culture of the Roman Age
Get an inverted walk experience, as the water in the cistern is so crystal clear that it reflects the ceiling
A friendly tour guide who will assist you throughout the tour and will tell you interesting stories and facts about this historical monument
The two Medusa heads at the base of two columns are the most famous features of the cistern. The origins of these eerie carvings are not clear, but they add a unique touch to the underground structure.
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The cistern is supported by a forest of 336 marble columns, each about 30 feet tall. Some of these columns are plain, but others feature intricate Corinthian capitals with delicate carvings of leaves and flowers.
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One of the most interesting columns in the cistern is the Hen's Eye pillar, which has a large, circular "eye" carved into its base. The purpose of this eye is not clear, but it adds to the mysterious and fascinating atmosphere of the cistern.
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The cistern is home to a variety of fish and carp, which can be seen swimming in the water. These fish are descendants of the ones that were originally placed in the cistern to keep the water clean and fresh.
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In addition to the architectural features of the cistern, there are also a number of Byzantine artifacts on display, including a statue of the Greek goddess Medusa and a relief of a man with a bull's head.
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Inclusions:
Meeting point - Meet at the Sultanahmet BusForUs stop in front of the Hagia Sophia.
What to bring - Passport or ID card
Please note:
Best Time to Visit - The best time to visit the Basilica Cistern is during the weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Additionally, visiting during the off-season (November to March) may offer a quieter experience.
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A Basilica Cistern tour typically includes entrance fees, a professional tour guide, and an audio guide to learn about the history and architecture of the cistern. Some tours may also include hotel pickup and drop-off, skip-the-line access, and a visit to other nearby attractions.
A typical Basilica Cistern tour takes approximately 1 hour, although some tours may take longer depending on the level of detail provided by the guide.
While it is not necessary to book a tour in advance, it is recommended to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking in advance also allows for the possibility of skip-the-line access and other perks.
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The cistern is located underground and can be cool and damp, so it is recommended to wear comfortable and warm clothing. Additionally, visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes as the ground can be slippery.
The Basilica Cistern is accessible for individuals with disabilities, although there are some areas that may be difficult to navigate. Visitors are advised to contact the cistern in advance to make arrangements for accessibility.
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