Basilica Cistern
Istanbul, TurkiyeDetails
About
Descend below the streets of Sultanahmet into this majestic underground reservoir which dates back to the 6th century. Also called the Sunken Palace, it is the largest cistern from Istanbul's Byzantine-era still standing, and something that James Bond fans might recognize from the film, 'From Russia with Love'. The underground chamber has over 330 distinctive marble and granite columns believed to have been salvaged from nearby buildings, the most famous being the two Medusa heads. Skip the lines and visit the Sunken Palace and other iconic sights like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace on a tour of Istanbul. ā Tripadvisor
Reviews
angelilaurad It was a brilliant experience. I loved how the place is very atmospheric. there are pcs of modern art installation amongst all the ruins.
ManFromLondon186338 It is an amazing space and incredible to see what they achieved so long ago. If you are interested in history the facts behind this and the system used to supply the water are incredible. From an aesthetic perspective it is one of my favourite historical monuments, the space, the light and the atmosphere are fantastic
Wombling_Free_7548 The Cistern is HUGE. Amazing to walk round it. The lighting changes from time to time so you can get different photos. There is also some excellent modern art, including a Medusa that creates a shadow with certain lighting. Queued for about 15 mins at 12pm on Sunday.
SeaTurtleSuz So interesting to see this huge water containment system built so long ago. I loved Medusa's heads and the peacock eye post. I also liked that it was built by recycling pillers and things from other buildings. I also like that there is much that is still unknown and only educated speculative guesses can be made.
Becksm1 Amazing spot. I found it reqlky facinating and loved the artworl weaved throughout. 300tl entry which i thought was a bargain for what i saw. Eent early in the morning just after opening, so few people in the line and walked straight in. Id say this was my top highlight of Istanbul
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