Basilica Cistern: Uncovering the Hidden Treasures of Istanbul
Istanbul, the capital of Turkey, is a bustling metropolis filled with vibrant culture and a rich history. One of the city’s most iconic sites is the Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Sarnıcı, which is an ancient underground water reservoir. Constructed in the 6th century AD, the cistern is a remarkable feat of engineering and an architectural marvel.
Discovering the Hidden Wonders of Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a vast underground structure located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul. It was first built as a part of the Great Palace of Constantinople by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century. The cistern is a giant rectangular chamber, measuring 140 meters long, 70 meters wide, and 9 meters deep. The chamber is supported by 336 marble columns, each measuring 9 meters in height, and is filled with cool, crystal-clear water.
The cistern was originally used to store water for the Great Palace and other nearby buildings. It was in use until the 16th century, when it was abandoned and largely forgotten until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. Today, the cistern is a popular tourist attraction and is open to visitors year-round.
Exploring the Ancient Architecture of Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and engineering. The chamber is filled with 336 marble columns, each of which is intricately carved with intricate floral and geometric designs. The columns are arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each, and are topped with beautiful capitals in the Corinthian, Doric, and Ionic styles.
The most striking feature of the Basilica Cistern is the two Medusa heads, which are believed to have been taken from the Temple of Apollo at Didyma and reused in the cistern’s construction. The heads, which measure 1.47 meters in height, are believed to have been used to support the cistern’s roof.
Stories and Legends of Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern has been the subject of many stories and legends over the years. One of the most popular is the legend of the “Cistern of the Sunken Palace”, which tells of a palace that was submerged in the cistern in order to protect it from invaders. Other tales tell of secret tunnels and hidden treasures that can be found in the cistern.
Visiting Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern can be visited year-round. The entrance fee is 20 Turkish Lira and the cistern is open from 9am to 5pm every day. Visitors are given a free audio guide upon entry, which provides more information about the cistern and its history.
Visitors can also take a guided tour, which includes a tour of the cistern and a visit to the Medusa heads. The tour takes approximately 45 minutes and is available in both English and Turkish.
Conclusion
The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most iconic sites and a must-see for any visitor to the city. The cistern is a remarkable feat of architecture and engineering, and its stunning columns and mysterious stories make it a truly unforgettable experience. So if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Istanbul, make sure to visit the Basilica Cistern.