General Information

  • Location: Southwest of Sultanahmet Square, near Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.

  • Construction Date: Built in 532 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.

  • Purpose: Constructed as a massive underground water reservoir to supply Constantinople’s water needs.

  • Name: Called “Yerebatan” in Turkish, meaning “submerged” or “sunken” due to its forest of columns; known in the West as the Basilica Cistern.

Architectural Features

  • Dimensions: About 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, covering a total area of 9,800 m².

  • Capacity: Could store up to 80,000 tons of water.

  • Columns: 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters high. Many were repurposed (spolia) from earlier Roman and Byzantine structures.

  • Arrangement: Columns are aligned in 12 rows.

  • Structure: Brick vaults and arches cover the cistern; a special waterproof mortar was used to prevent leakage.

Highlights

  • Medusa Heads: Two column bases feature Medusa head carvings—one placed sideways, the other upside down. Believed to have been taken from Roman-era structures, these are among the most striking elements.

  • Crying Column: A column decorated with teardrop patterns, thought to commemorate workers who built the cistern.

  • Atmosphere: Dim lighting, humidity, and the “forest of columns” create a mystical, dramatic ambiance.

Historical Timeline

  • In the Byzantine era, water was brought via aqueducts such as the Valens Aqueduct and stored here.

  • During the Ottoman period, it continued to be used, mainly serving the water needs of Topkapi Palace.

  • Over time it was forgotten, until rediscovered in the 16th century by traveler Petrus Gyllius.

Today

  • Restored and opened to visitors; it is now one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions.

  • Visitors can walk on wooden platforms inside, admire the Medusa heads, and explore the unique column layout.

  • It also hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and cultural events.

Significance

The Basilica Cistern is both an engineering marvel of Byzantine architecture and a site that embodies the mystical and mysterious atmosphere of Istanbul.

Basilica Cistern Visitor Information

🕒 Visiting Hours

  • Open every day between 09:00 – 22:00.
  • Last admission: 18:30
  • Night Shift: 19:30 – 22:00, with a different ticket price policy.

💰 Ticket Prices

Visiting Period Foreign Visitors Turkish Citizens Children
09:00 – 18:30 ₺1,500 Same tariff (discounts available for students) Free under age 7
19:30 – 22:00 (Night Shift) ₺2,400 Same or reduced tariff Free under age 7 (discounts for students)

⚠️ Visitor Tips

  • The Night Shift offers a special experience beyond standard visiting hours.
  • Always check official sources for updated ticket prices and opening hours before your visit.
  • Since the cistern is underground, the environment is cool and humid; the floor may be slippery. Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes.
  • For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or late in the evening; midday is the busiest time.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR