Basilica Cistern

A Sunken Tapestry of History 

The beautiful yet mystifying Yerebatan Sarnıcı (Basilica Cistern) is no ordinary underground well. The huge cistern from Eastern Roman times was built in the mid-500s on the site of a former basilica. More than 300 marble columns give the essentially underground water reservoir a magnificent, serene atmosphere. Look out for the two columns that date back to Roman times with the carved heads of Medusa. 

The Yerebatan Sarnıcı is the largest of many cisterns that thrive beneath İstanbul - a vision imbued with cavernous splendour. Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, this cistern served as an incredible hub of water filtration systems for many empires. Curious explorers can wander along wooden paths, ancient columns, carved pillars and mystical arches marked by traces of aged architecture.   

The amalgamation of light cascading on the water, the quivering reflections of the columns and shoals of ghostly carp with classical music is an unworldly sight. 

The cistern has such an appeal that it has also served as a backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters, including a film from the James Bond series. This underground cistern, which exudes a transcendental aura, is the only place of its kind to have been restored for the public.