The Mysterious Beauty of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul
Beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district lies a secret world—silent, dark, and dripping with history. The Basilica Cistern, known in Turkish as Yerebatan Sarnici, is one of the city’s most atmospheric landmarks. Once a crucial water source for the Byzantine Empire, this ancient underground reservoir now invites visitors into a hauntingly beautiful space that feels like a journey back in time.
A Glimpse Into Byzantine Engineering
The Basilica Cistern was built in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian I. As the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul, it served as a water supply for the Great Palace and nearby buildings.
- Capacity to hold over 80,000 cubic meters of water
- Dimensions of 140 meters long and 70 meters wide
- Supported by 336 marble columns, each 9 meters tall
- Columns arranged in 12 rows of 28
- Many columns reused from older Roman temples, featuring various styles
This architectural wonder showcases the practical genius and artistic vision of Byzantine engineers.
The Medusa Heads: Legends Beneath the Surface
Tucked away in a far corner of the cistern are two famous Medusa heads used as column bases. What makes them so fascinating?
- One head is placed sideways, the other upside down
- Their origin is unknown, but they likely came from ancient Roman structures
- The positioning is believed to neutralize Medusa’s mythical power
- Some suggest they were simply reused for practicality
These sculptural relics are shrouded in mystery and are among the most iconic photo spots in the cistern.
An Atmospheric Experience
What truly sets the Basilica Cistern apart is its atmosphere. Once inside, visitors are enveloped in:
- Dim lighting that creates flickering reflections on the water
- Columns that disappear into the shadows
- A cool, tranquil environment beneath the busy city
Featured in Films and Books
Thanks to its haunting ambiance, the Basilica Cistern has been featured in:
- The James Bond film From Russia with Love
- Dan Brown’s Inferno (and its film adaptation)
- Numerous documentaries and travel programs
Visit the Cistern with Istanbul Explorer Pass
One of the smartest ways to visit the Basilica Cistern is by using the Istanbul Explorer Pass. With this digital sightseeing pass:
- You can skip the ticket line and enter the cistern directly
- Entry is included—no need to pay separately at the entrance
- All reservations and access details are managed digitally via the app, making your experience hassle-free
Visitor Information
Location & How to Get There
The Basilica Cistern is located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district.
- Address: Alemdar Mah. Yerebatan Cad. No:13, 34110 Fatih/Istanbul
- Nearest Tram Stop: Sultanahmet (T1 Tram Line) – 2 minutes on foot
- Walking Distance Museums:
Opening Hours
- Typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Last entry 30–60 minutes before closing
- Best visited early morning or late afternoon
Accessibility
- Entrance via stairs
- Flat wooden walkways inside; dim lighting throughout
- Not fully accessible for wheelchair users
- Cool and damp atmosphere—consider bringing a light jacket
Photography Tips
- Flash is discouraged
- Ambient lighting makes for dramatic shots
- Don’t miss the Medusa heads for the most iconic
Tips for Your Visit
- Visit early or late for fewer crowds
- Use the Istanbul Explorer Pass to save time
- Take your time exploring the Medusa heads and atmospheric arches
- Plan a full day in Sultanahmet to explore nearby museums
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
- One of the few ancient underground sites open to the public
- Ideal setting for dramatic and memorable photography
- Rich with legends, mythology, and imperial history
- Skip-the-line access available via the Istanbul Explorer Pass
Final Thoughts
The Basilica Cistern is a rare gem hidden just below the surface of Istanbul. Whether you're drawn to its engineering, mythology, or ambiance, it promises a unique and memorable experience. With the convenience of the Istanbul Explorer Pass, visiting becomes even easier—saving you time while uncovering the deeper layers of this remarkable city.