Basilica Cistern Ticket (Skip-Lines)

Everyday Guarantee Departures

1 Day

1 City

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Places to Visit

Basilica CisternIstanbul

Tour Details Tour ID 565

Featured Details

Beneath the Streets: The Mysterious Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern, located in the heart of Istanbul, is one of the largest and most captivating ancient cisterns beneath the city. Constructed in 532 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was designed to store water for the Great Palace and other important buildings in the city. With its impressive vaulted ceilings supported by 336 marble columns, the cistern creates a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere, earning it the nickname "the Sunken Palace." It reflects the grandeur of Byzantine architecture and engineering, and it remained in use even after the Ottoman conquest.

For Christians, the cistern holds significant historical importance as a relic of the Byzantine Empire, a period when Christianity flourished in Constantinople. It continued to serve as a vital water source for Muslims after the Ottoman conquest of 1453, showing the city's shared heritage across both empires. Among its most iconic features are two large Medusa heads at the base of columns, whose origins and positioning remain mysterious, adding a mythical allure to the site.

Inclusion:

✅ Entrance Fees of Basilica Cistern

Exclusion:

❌ Optional additional tours or activities

Departures : Everyday

Departure Place : Istanbul

✅ Everyday guarantee departures
✅ Private Local Guide (Optional)
✅ Entrance Fees

Tour Program

Itinerary

Basilica Cistern Highlights

Impressive Size: Explore the vast underground chamber supported by over 336 columns.
Unique Architecture: Admire the inverted Medusa heads and other decorative elements.
Historical Significance: Learn about the cistern's role in Byzantine history.
Mysterious Atmosphere: Experience the eerie and enchanting atmosphere of the underground space.
Cultural Connections: Discover the cistern's appearance in popular culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I get to the Basilica Cistern?
A: The cistern is located in Sultanahmet, near the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, easily accessible by public transportation or on foot.

Q: What is the significance of the Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern?
A: The two Medusa heads are ancient sculptures, though their origins and reasons for placement remain unknown, adding an air of mystery to the cistern.

Q: How long does it take to visit the Basilica Cistern?
A: A typical visit to the cistern lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, allowing time to explore the site and take in its unique atmosphere.