Basilica Cistern History and Features – ISTANBUL
The Basilica Cistern is a large underground chamber located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to provide a water supply for the city’s Great Palace and other public buildings. The cistern is located in the historic district of Istanbul, near the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
The Basilica Cistern is a massive structure, measuring approximately 140 meters (460 feet) long and 70 meters (230 feet) wide. It is supported by 336 marble columns, arranged in a grid pattern, and is filled with water. The columns are decorated with intricate carvings and are supported by stone bases in the shape of animals, including Medusa heads, which are believed to have been used as weights to stabilize the columns.
The Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist attraction in Istanbul and is open to the public. Visitors can tour the cistern and learn about its history and construction. It is a unique and fascinating place to visit, and it offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and engineering prowess.
What is the History of the Basilica Cistern?
The Basilica Cistern is a historic underground cistern located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine Empire and was used to store water for the city of Constantinople (present-day Istanbul). The cistern is named after the basilica that was located above it, which was destroyed in the 19th century.
The Basilica Cistern was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to provide water to the city during times of drought. The cistern is an impressive structure, with a total area of 9,800 square meters and a capacity of 100,000 cubic meters of water. It is supported by 336 columns arranged in a grid pattern, and the columns are adorned with intricate carvings and decorations.
The Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist attraction in Istanbul and is visited by millions of tourists every year. It is open to visitors every day except for Mondays, and the visiting hours vary depending on the season. The cistern is a unique and fascinating piece of history and is a testament to the ingenuity of the Byzantine Empire.
Basilica Cistern Entrance, What is the Visiting Hour?
The Basilica Cistern is a historic underground cistern located in Istanbul, Turkey and is a popular tourist attraction. The visiting hours of the cistern vary depending on the season and the day of the week. As of 2023, the visiting hours of the cistern are as follows:
- Between April 1 and October 31 (summer season):
- Tuesdays to Sundays: 09:00 to 19:00
- Between November 1 and March 31 (winter season):
- Tuesdays to Sundays: 09:00 to 17:00
Please note that these visiting hours are subject to change, and it is recommended to check the official website of the Basilica Cistern or ask at the ticket booth for the most up-to-date visiting hours.
The Basilica Cistern is closed to visitors on Mondays and during some religious holidays. It is recommended to check the official website or ask at the ticket booth for the exact visiting hours on the day you plan to visit.
What accommodation is close to the Basilica Cistern?
The Basilica Cistern is a historic underground cistern located in Istanbul, Turkey and is a popular tourist attraction. There are no accommodations available inside the cistern itself, but there are many hotels, hostels, and guesthouses located in the surrounding area. These accommodations range from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels and offer a variety of amenities and services.
- Basilica Cistern Hotel: This hotel is located just a few steps from the cistern and offers modern rooms with views of the cistern and the city.
- Basilica Cistern Grand Bazaar Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Istanbul and offers spacious rooms with views of the cistern and the city.
- Basilica Cistern Suites: This guesthouse is located in the Sultanahmet district and offers budget-friendly rooms with views of the cistern and the city.
- Basilica Cistern Palace Hotel: This hotel is located in the Sultanahmet district and offers modern rooms with views of the cistern and the city.
There are many other accommodations available near the Basilica Cistern, and it is recommended to do some research and compare prices and amenities to find the best option for your needs and budget.