Basilica Cistern Tours & Experiences in Istanbul

The Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most remarkable Byzantine landmarks, located beneath the historic Sultanahmet district near Hagia Sophia. Constructed during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the sixth century, the vast underground reservoir was designed to supply water to the Great Palace and surrounding buildings. Its atmospheric interior contains hundreds of marble columns, vaulted brick ceilings and the famous Medusa head column bases. Restored and opened to visitors, the Basilica Cistern offers a distinctive view of Istanbul’s ancient engineering, architecture and layered urban history.