Basilica Cistern Tour
Description
Key Information:
- Location: Sultanahmet District (near Hagia Sophia).
- History: Commissioned by Emperor Justinian I in 532 AD to supply water to Byzantine palaces.
- Architecture:
336 marble columns, each 9 meters high, some repurposed from ancient Roman temples.
The inverted Medusa heads (the site’s most intriguing mystery).
A unique hydraulic system that sustained the cistern for over 1,500 years.
- Tour Highlights:
Legends of Medusa and the engraved columns.
Engineering marvels that preserved the cistern through centuries.
Its role as inspiration for Hollywood films (e.g., From Russia with Love).
Practical Information:
- Visiting Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Cost: Entry ticket priced at 1,900 Turkish Lira (seasonal variations may apply).
- Guides: English/Arabic guided tours available with prior booking.
- Tips:
Wear comfortable shoes (floor may be wet).
Avoid crowds by visiting early morning or on weekdays.
Don’t miss capturing the magical reflections on the water.
Why Visit the Basilica Cistern?
Step into a hidden world of human ingenuity and historical intrigue! Here, beneath the earth, you’ll hear whispers of fallen empires and witness how the Byzantines transformed stone into a symphony of engineering and myth.
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