The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul reopened in July 2022 and is one of the city’s most unique and intriguing historical sites. Known as Yerebatan Saray (sunken palace) in Turkish, it lies within easy reach of many of Istanbul’s most famous sites, including Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. This incredible underground cathedral is the largest of many ancient cisterns hidden beneath the streets of Istanbul, and it is a must-see on any city tour.

About the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

You may be familiar with the Basilica Cistern as it has featured as a backdrop in many movies shot in Istanbul, including the Bond film From Russia With Love (1963), The International (2009), and the 2016 film adaptation of Dan Brown’s novel Inferno. This huge 9,800-meter-square subterranean chamber now has additional structural and earthquake supports and a brand new lighting system after 5 long years of renovation. Its 336 famous marble columns, each 9m tall, now rise safely from the waters depths deep below Istanbul’s tourist district. The cistern can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water and was built by more than 7,000 slaves, many of whom lost their lives during its construction.

The Basilica Cistern was so-called after the great Ilius basilica that once stood in its place during the Early Roman Age. Ancient historians believe the original site was a commercial and legal centre due to its location below the public square on the First Hill of Constantinople. Over the years, the site was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The current Basilica Cistern was ordered and built by Byzantine Emperor Justinian (527-565). It was initially used to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and the other buildings on the First Hill. Later, it provided water to Topkapi Palace and other mansions in the area following the 1453 Ottoman conquest.

The Marble Columns

One of the most striking features of the cistern are the 336 Ionic, Corinthian and Doric-style granite and marble columns arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns. Each is spaced 5 m apart and most of the columns are engraved, with one depicting a hen’s eye, branches and tears thought to resemble the 4^th-century columns of the Triumphal Arch of Theodosius I. These colossal columns were brought to the site from across the empire, reclaimed from the ruins of other buildings of the era.

The Medusa Heads

Those that visit the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul often remark that the two Medusa heads at the base of columns towards the northwest corner leave a striking impression. These eerie carved sculptures of the snake-haired female from Greek Mythology are inverted and placed sideways at the foot of the columns, possibly to negate the evil power of the Gorgons’ gaze. They are used as pedestals, but historians remain baffled as to their origins. Some believe Medusa is there to protect the site, but it is a mystery where they came from and how they ended up at this location.

Visit the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and a 360° Yachting tour can easily be arranged. The trip starts by descending to the underground viewing level via a long staircase. The Medusa columns are found towards the far left-hand side of the cistern and are the main highlight. The subdued lighting, cool temperature and incredible acoustics create a unique and mysterious ambience that leaves the Basilica Cistern as one of the most memorable excursions to take in Istanbul. CONTACT US to arrange to see the site for yourself or for more details.