THE BASILICA CISTERN Old City Istanbul

We visited the Basilica Cistern, in September 2023 and this was one of the more unique tourist experiences we had during our visit. Go down, underground to see this very atmospheric, historical site which has a variety of ancient Roman architecture.
You have to see the amazing MEDUSA HEADS and the stunning COLUMN OF TEARS.
Address:
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Hours:
Monday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
Thursday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
Friday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
Saturday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
Sunday 9 am-6:30 pm, 7:30-11:50 pm
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The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı) is one of the most fascinating historical landmarks in Istanbul, Türkiye. Built during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century (around 532 AD), it served as a water storage facility for the city. Here are some key highlights about the Basilica Cistern:
1. Architecture and Structure:
The cistern is located near the Hagia Sophia, and its underground chamber measures approximately 143 meters long and 65 meters wide, covering an area of about 9,800 square meters.
It holds up to 80,000 cubic meters of water.
The interior is supported by 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns. These columns were repurposed from earlier Roman structures and temples, giving the cistern its unique aesthetic.
2. Medusa Heads:
One of the most intriguing features inside the Basilica Cistern is the two massive Medusa head carvings found at the base of two columns.
The heads are positioned oddly, with one placed sideways and the other upside down. There is much speculation about why they are oriented this way, with theories ranging from symbolic meanings to practical structural reasons.
3. Function:
The cistern was used to store water for the Great Palace of Constantinople and other nearby buildings. Water was transported from the Belgrade Forest via aqueducts.
Even during the Ottoman Empire, after the city became Istanbul, the cistern was still used, particularly to supply water to Topkapi Palace.
4. Modern Use:
The cistern was rediscovered in the 16th century by Petrus Gyllius, a French scholar, when locals were found drawing water (and sometimes fish) from beneath their homes.
Today, the Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist attraction, with atmospheric lighting and walkways built for visitors. It has even been used as a backdrop in films like James Bond's "From Russia with Love".
5. Atmosphere:
The cistern has an eerie, mystical feel due to its vast underground space, dim lighting, reflections of columns in the shallow water, and its quiet, echoing ambiance. The cool, damp air adds to the unique experience.
It's a must-see for those visiting Istanbul, showcasing the ingenuity of Byzantine engineering and offering a hauntingly beautiful experience underground.

[@zephyr.2415]

Looks so amazing