Audio GuideBasilica Cistern

Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies a remarkable and mysterious place: the Yerebatan Sarnıcı, also known as the Basilica Cistern. Nearly fifteen centuries ago, Roman engineers and countless labourers created this vast underground reservoir to ensure a steady supply of water for the ancient city, especially when the threat of war made water scarce or unsafe. It was built at the command of Emperor Justinian of the Byzantine Empire and completed in the early years of the sixth century. The construction spanned almost two hundred years. This long period shows the determination and craftsmanship of its builders.

Daniel Paiva Fernandes

The cistern covers nearly ten thousand square metres and is supported by three hundred thirty-six marble columns, some reaching almost nine metres in height. These columns were sourced from various antique temples and ruins throughout the empire, and each brings its own story: some are adorned with elegant Corinthian designs, while others are more plain and understated. Together, they evoke the grandeur of a subterranean palace. The gentle sound of water and the faint echo of footsteps give every visit a mystical atmosphere.

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In the northwest corner, there are two Medusa heads with a legendary past. These Roman reliefs form the bases of two of the columns. One head is turned sideways and the other is inverted. According to legend, this arrangement was devised to diminish Medusa’s petrifying gaze. It also reveals the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who built the cistern.

Throughout both the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, the cistern’s thick brick walls were made watertight with a special mortar. This allowed it to store vast quantities of freshwater, which flowed through aqueducts from far-off forests into the heart of the city. Even as Istanbul changed hands, the cistern continued to provide water for palaces and neighbourhoods, especially in times of emergency.

Today, visitors stroll along platforms above shallow, crystal-clear water. The atmospheric lighting, occasional art exhibitions, and the reflections glimmering off ancient stone combine to create a scene suspended in time. Thanks to careful restoration, the cistern stands as a safe and enduring witness to the city’s past. Its secrets are preserved for future generations.

Yerebatan Sarnıcı still fascinates people all over the world. It has featured in James Bond films, Dan Brown’s novel Inferno, and even in popular video games. Whether you are captivated by its striking architecture, the enigmatic Medusa columns, or the cool serenity beneath the city, the Basilica Cistern is certain to leave a lasting impression. It is where Istanbul’s rich history flows seamlessly into its vibrant present.