Explore The Sublime Beauty of the Basilica Cistern
History of Basilica Cistern
- The Basilica Cistern was constructed in the 6th century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
- It was built to provide water to the city of Istanbul, which was then known as Constantinople.
- The cistern covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water.
- It is supported by 336 columns, most of which were salvaged from ruined buildings and are thought to have been brought from various parts of the Roman Empire.
- The cistern was forgotten for centuries and was rediscovered by chance in the 16th century when a Dutch traveler noticed locals retrieving water from a hole in their basement floor.
- During the Ottoman Empire, the cistern was used as a water storage facility for the Topkapi Palace and other buildings in the area.
- In 1985, the cistern was opened to the public as a tourist attraction and today it remains one of the most popular sights in Istanbul.
Also Checkout - Medusa Basilica Cistern
Columns Of Basilica Cistern
.jpg?w=auto&h=600 "Medusa Columns")
These two columns are the most famous in the Basilica Cistern, featuring the head of Medusa carved into their bases. It is unclear where they came from and why they were placed in the cistern.
Must Visit - Basilica Cistern Neaby Hotels
Located in the northwest corner of the cistern, this column features a carved medallion resembling a hen's eye. Its function is unknown, but it is believed to be an ancient Roman relic.
Also Visit - Basilica Cistern Nearby Cafes
These plain, unadorned columns are made of brick and were used to support the walls of the cistern. They are the simplest of the columns and are located in the corners of the cistern.
Visit & Checkout - Night At Basilica Cistern
These columns feature ornate carvings and decorations in the Corinthian style. They are located near the northwest corner of the cistern and are believed to have been repurposed from a previous structure.
Also Checkout - Basilica Cistern Restoration
These columns are decorated with carvings of elephant tusks and are located in the northwest corner of the cistern. Their origin is unknown, but they are believed to have been brought to Istanbul from North Africa.
Also Visit - Basilica Cistern Hidden Gems
These columns feature twisted shafts and ornate carvings, similar to those found in the Hagia Sophia. They are located in the southeast corner of the cistern and are believed to have been salvaged from a previous structure.
Must Checkout - Architecture Of Basilica Cistern
These columns are located in the northeast corner of the cistern and feature spiraling grooves carved into their shafts. Their function is unknown, but they add an interesting visual element to the forest of columns.
Must Checkout & Book: Tickets to Topkapi Palace
These columns feature a mix of different styles and decorative elements, including Corinthian and Ionic capitals. They are located in the central area of the cistern and are believed to have been salvaged from a previous structure.
Must Visit - History Basilica Cistern
Know Before You Go To Basilica Cistern
How to Reach
- By Public Transport - The easiest way to reach the Basilica Cistern is by taking the Istanbul Metro or the Tram T1 to the Sultanahmet stop. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance of the cistern.
- By Taxi - Taxis are widely available in Istanbul and can be a convenient way to reach the Basilica Cistern. However, be sure to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in.
- By Foot - If you're staying in the Sultanahmet area, you can easily reach the cistern on foot. Just follow the signs and take a leisurely stroll through the historic district.
- By Tour Bus - Many organized tours of Istanbul include a visit to the Basilica Cistern, so if you're on a guided tour, transportation will be included.
Location - Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Best Time to Visit - The best time to visit the Basilica Cistern is during the shoulder season, which is from April to May or September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner than during the peak summer season. It's best to avoid visiting the cistern during the hottest months of July and August when temperatures can reach up to 30°C, and the crowds can be overwhelming. It's also recommended to visit the cistern early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times of the day.
Must Visit - Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Combo Ticket
FAQs For Columns Of Basilica Cistern
What is the Basilica Cistern?
The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage system located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine era and is one of the largest surviving cisterns in Istanbul.
How many columns are there in the Basilica Cistern?
There are 336 columns in the Basilica Cistern, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each. The columns are made of marble and granite, and many of them have ornate carvings and engravings.
Suggested for You: Restaurants Nearby Topkapi Palace
What is the significance of the Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern?
There are two Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern, which are located at the base of two of the columns. It is believed that they were taken from a pagan temple and placed in the cistern as a protective measure against evil spirits.
Can visitors walk on the water in the Basilica Cistern?
No, visitors cannot walk on the water in the Basilica Cistern. There are raised wooden platforms that allow visitors to walk around the perimeter of the cistern and view the columns and water from above.
Also Checkout ticket price for Dolmabahce Palace here.
Is the Basilica Cistern wheelchair accessible?
The Basilica Cistern is not fully wheelchair accessible, as there are some steps and uneven surfaces throughout the site. However, there is a lift available for visitors who need assistance, and the staff are happy to help in any way they can.
How long does a visit to the Basilica Cistern take?
A visit to the Basilica Cistern typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on how much time you spend admiring the columns and exploring the site. However, during peak tourist season, wait times can be longer, so it's recommended to allow for more time if visiting during these times.
Explore Basilica Cistern
Things To Do In Istanbul
About Us | Contact Us | Email Us: basilica-cistern@thrillophilia.com
The content and images used on this site are copyright protected and copyrights vests with the respective owners.