Things to do in Istanbul

Basilica Cistern Istanbul, a subterranean wonder in Istanbul

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One of the most popular attractions in Istanbul, Turkey, is the Basilica Cistern. The Basilica Cistern is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul, over two thousand years old! The grandeur of this underground cistern is breathtaking, and its cavernous depths make it a great retreat during the summers. The Basilica Cistern was used to store water in the past and even today, a small quantity of water is still present in the chamber that is open to the public.

Know Before You Go


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Handy information

⏰ Suggested Duration:2 hours
☀️ Best Time to Visit:Monday mornings
💜 Must See:Medusa Pillar Heads
🎟️Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Ticket: €28.90

Opening Hours And Address

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
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Recommended Basilica Cistern Tickets


We recommend that you buy tickets to visit the Basilica Cistern in advance and online. This will help you plan your visit and choose your preferred time slot. There are many ticket options, such as skip-the-line, guided tours, and combo deals, available for the Basilica Cistern on our website.

Why Visit the Basilica Cistern


The subterranean structure of the Cistern was built in 532, and it still stands today. During the Byzantine empire, the Basilica Cistern was used to service the water needs of the Great Palace of Constantinople and the buildings on First Hill.

Located on the historic Sarayburnu Peninsula, the Basilica Cistern is situated near other important attractions such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. The Basilica Cistern draws millions of visitors every year and is known for the underground cathedral with its two medusa head base pillars. Also known as the ‘Subterranean Palace’, the Basilica Cistern is a grand structure of marble pillars that promises an unmissable and unique tourist experience.

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Basilica Cistern's History


The construction of the Basilica Cistern was commissioned by Emperor Justinian, and it was built in 532. The primary aim of the cistern was to service the water needs of the Great Palace and its surrounding buildings. The cistern fell to neglect when Constantinople was invaded by the Ottomans. In 1545, Frenchman Petrus Gyllius rediscovered the cistern when locals told him that they could get water by lowering the buckets into a dark space below their basement floors. In 1985, the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality took over the Basilica Cistern, cleaned and renovated it, and then opened it to the public in 1987.

The Architecture of Basilica Cistern

The subterranean structure of the Basilica Cistern is 140 meters long, and 70 meters wide and covers an area of 9,800 square meters. With a floor plastered with a thick layer of brick dust mortar to make it water-resistant, the Cistern is supported by 336 pillars, each of which is 9 meters high and placed at a distance of 4.8 meters. The most famous of these pillars are the Medusa head base pillars. The Basilica Cistern is accessible through a 52-step stairway and its floor is. Each of the columns of the Cistern is different and features finely carved marble capitals.

Basilica Cistern Highlights


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Medusa Head Base Pillars

Located on the north-western side of the cistern, the two medusa heads form the base for two of the pillars of the Basilica Cistern. One Medusa head base is placed sideways and the other head base is placed in an inverted position. It is believed that these bases were taken from an ancient Roman building and then used in the construction of the Basilica Cistern.

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The Weeping Column

Of the many pillars that forms the cistern, there is one column that is always wet. With tear-like carvings on it, it is said that this pillar was built to honour the workers who were killed while the construction of the Basilica Cistern was underway.

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The 300+ Marble Columns

The cavern is held up by 336 columns, towering at 9 metres. What's special about them is their style, ranging from the simplicity of Doric columns, to the intricate Corinthian. Some of these columns are believed to have once been a part of the Forum of Theodosius.

Best Time to Visit Basilica Cistern


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The best time to visit the Basilica Cistern is during the off-season, March to May and/or September to November. Istanbul has a pleasant temperature in both the autumn and the spring season, so you wouldn’t have to worry about unpleasant weather during the off-season. However, the opening hours of the Basilica Cistern vary with the season, so we recommend that you check out their opening hours and plan your visit accordingly.

Basilica Cistern Opening Hours


During the summers, the Basilica Cistern remains open from 9 am-6:30 pm, whereas during the winters the cistern is open from 9 am-5:30 pm. The summer season runs from April to October and the winter season runs from November to March.

On special days such as the New Year and other religious holidays, the Basilica Cistern opens at 1 pm. We recommend that before booking your tickets for visiting the Basilica Cistern online and in advance, you check out the opening hours of the attraction to have a smooth and hassle-free visit.

Getting There


  • By Tram:
    Though the tram is an affordable option, it does take longer to reach Basilica Cistern. It will take you around 50 minutes to reach Basilica Cistern by tram. Take the T1 tram line to the Sultanahmet station to reach the Basilica Cistern.
  • By Taxi:
    The easiest way to travel to the Basilica Cistern is by taxi. From the airport, it will take you around 30-35 minutes to reach Basilica Cistern.

Restaurants Near Basilica Cistern


Nars Brasserie

The Nars Brasserie is located between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. It lies just behind the Basilica Cistern. This restaurant blends the cultural heritage of Turkey into its food. They have a rich drinks menu and offer a wide range of cuisine that is perfect for tourists and locals alike.

Saltanat Fish and Kebab House

Just a 3-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern, the Saltanat Fish, and Kebab House is a must-try! The restaurant is known for its perfectly cooked meat kebabs, hummus, and chicken skewers. Don’t forget to try out their apple tea, coffee, lemonade, house wine, and baklava. If you are looking for good quality food at affordable prices, then Saltanat Fish and Kebab House is your go-to restaurant.

Deraliye Terrace

The Deraliye Terrace is a multi-cuisine restaurant located in the heart of the Sultanahmet district in Istanbul. Just a 2-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern, Deraliye Terrace offers delicious food that can be eaten while enjoying the panoramic views of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. A great place for families and couples, the Deraliye Terrace is one of the best restaurants you will find in Istanbul.

Foodie-ist Cafe and Brasserie

Just a 1-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern, the Foodie-ist Cafe and Brasseries serves delicious Turkish and world cuisine. The restaurant’s buffet breakfast spread is worth checking out! You can also see your meals being prepared since the Foodie-ist Cafe and Brasserie has an open kitchen concept. The dishes at the restaurant are superbly presented and they taste as good as they look!

House of Medusa Restaurant

The House of Medusa restaurant is a 1-minute walk from the Basilica Cistern and offers local dishes inspired by Ottoman and Turkish cuisine. Located in a historical mansion and the ancient Sarayburnu peninsula, the House of Medusa restaurant is a must-try for foodies. Be sure to try their lamb stew on mashed eggplant and their sweetmeats with dried apricots, walnuts, and figs.

Basilica Cistern Facts


  • The Basilica Cistern is the largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul.
  • The Basilica Cistern can store around 80,000 cubic meters of water.
  • The Cistern is over two thousand years old!
  • Each of the 336 columns of the Basilica Cistern is different from the other.
  • The entrance to the Basilica Cistern is right across the street from the Hagia Sophia.
  • The Basilica Cistern delivered water to the Great Palace and its surrounding buildings via 20 kilometers long aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea.
  • When the Byzantine emperors relocated, the Basilica Cistern was closed. It was rediscovered in 1545 by Petrus Gyllius.

Insider Tips for Visiting Basilica Cistern


  • The Basilica Cistern closes at 5:30 pm during the winter and at 6:30 pm during the summer.
  • If you are planning to buy on-the-spot tickets to visit Basilica Cistern, carry cash since they do not accept credit and debit cards.
  • You cannot enter the Basilica Cistern with the museum pass that allows you to enter other museums in Istanbul.
  • Since it is underground, the Basilica Cistern will be cool. It is advisable to carry a light cardigan when visiting the cistern.
  • Since you will be walking a lot during your visit to the Basilica Cistern, wear comfortable and sturdy shoes to avoid slipping.
  • Keep in mind that Istanbul is a religious place, so wear clothes that cover your arms and knees.
  • You can click pictures inside the Basilica Cistern using only your mobile phone.
  • We recommend that you book your tickets to visit the Basilica Cistern online and in advance.
  • If you want to avoid the crowds during your visit to the Basilica Cistern, plan your visit during the off-season.

Things to Do Around Baslicia Cistern


Basilica Cistern Guide

FAQs


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How old is the Basilica Cistern? 

The Basilica Cistern is over two thousand years old. 

Who built the Basilica Cistern? 

The Basilica Cistern was commissioned by Emperor Justinian. 

How tall/big is the Basilica Cistern? 

The Basilica Cistern is 140 meters long, and 70 meters wide and spans an area of 9,800 square meters. 

Are Skip-the-Line tickets to Basilica Cistern worth it? 

Yes! Skip-the-line tickets to Basilica Cistern are worth it because they help you gain priority entry to the attraction. This means no waiting in long queues and wasting time. 

How much time does it take you to explore Basilica Cistern comfortably? 

You can explore the Basilica Cistern within 1 to 2 hours.

What is the best mode of transport to reach the Basilica Cistern? 

The best way to reach the Basilica Cistern is by taxi. 

On what dates is the Basilica Cistern closed in a year? 

The Basilica Cistern is open throughout the year. However, on New Year and other religious holidays, the Basilica Cistern opens at 1 pm instead of 9 am. 

Is Basilica Cistern open on Christmas and New Year? 

On Christmas and New Year, the Basilica Cistern opens at 1 pm. 

Are there any restaurants inside the Basilica Cistern? 

You will not find any restaurants inside the Basilica Cistern, but you will find restaurants near the attraction that are just a 1 or 3-minute walk away from the Cistern. 

Are there washrooms at Basilica Cistern? 

Unfortunately, there are no washrooms at the Basilica Cistern.

Is there a dress code to visit the Basilica Cistern?

There is no dress code to visit the Basilica Cistern, but we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and footwear since you will be walking a lot. You must also keep in mind that Turkey is a religious place, so try to wear garments that cover your arms and knees.

What are the safety precautions taken at the Basilica Cistern? 

Visitors are required to wear a face mask, practice social distancing, and regularly sanitize their hands while visiting the Basilica Cistern.