Basilica Cistern: Historical Secrets in the Heart of Istanbul

The Basilica Cistern, one of Istanbul's most renowned attractions, lies in the city's historic core. It is the largest underground cistern remaining from the Eastern Roman Empire. Located near the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, this cistern attracts over three million visitors annually, both domestic and international. If you stay nearby this area you have lots of things to do in Istanbul and also you can book Hotels near Basilica Cistern from our website Tripfloric.com. Othewise if you would like to Rent Daily apartment near Basilica Cistern, our options will support it.


An Unexpected Historical Gem
Dating back to the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern stands out as one of Istanbul's most unique and unexpected historical sites. It is among over 80 underground cisterns in the city but is the largest of them all. Visitors can wander through its illuminated corridors and enjoy the soft music playing, creating a captivating atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility
The Basilica Cistern is in the Sultanahmet district, adjacent to the famous Hagia Sophia Museum and Mosque. It is approximately 44.3 kilometers from the Bosphorus Strait (about 1 hour and 15 minutes) and 4.2 kilometers from Taksim Square (about 30 minutes). Other nearby attractions include Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Archaeological Museum.

Getting There
Easily accessible from anywhere in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern can be reached by bus, taxi, metro, and other public transportation. From Taksim Square, the most straightforward route is via the Istanbul tram. The closest tram station to Taksim is Kabataş Tram Station. You can either walk (12 minutes) or take the funicular (2 to 5 minutes) to Kabataş. From there, take tram line T1 to Sultanahmet Station, followed by a short walk to the cistern.

A Rich Historical Background
Initially an underground structure beneath the Basilica Stoa, the cistern was commissioned by Emperor Constantine I in the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. It was later transformed into the grand cistern known today. The Nika Revolt in the 6th century significantly damaged the structure, which was subsequently rebuilt and expanded by Emperor Justinian I between 526 AD and 565 AD.

Thousands of prisoners worked on its construction, and after completion, a water filtration system was installed. The cistern supplied water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other central buildings, including the First Hill, the city's core. Its importance as a water source continued well into the 15th century, even after the Ottoman Empire conquered Constantinople.

Rediscovery in the 16th Century
The cistern fell into disuse under the Ottoman Empire and was forgotten until 1545. French scientist Petrus Gyllius rediscovered it while studying Roman relics in Constantinople. He documented his findings, introducing the cistern's grandeur to the Western world. Despite its rediscovery, it remained neglected by the Ottoman authorities.

Modern-Day Significance
Today, the Basilica Cistern is a popular tourist destination. Notable visitors include Bill Clinton, former Dutch Prime Minister Wim Kok, Italian politician Lamberto Dini, former Swedish Prime Minister Göran Persson, former Austrian President Thomas Klestil, and the fictional character James Bond. It also served as a filming location for Ron Howard's "Inferno" in 2016.

Name Origin
The name "Basilica Cistern" originates from the large basilican-style church once located on the First Hill of Constantinople. The term "Basilica" translates to "a place of worship," while "Cistern" refers to a water reservoir.

Water Source
The cistern was supplied by the Agríkapi Aqueduct, located 19 kilometers north of the city center. Water from the Valens and Mağlova Aqueducts flowed into the cistern. Historically, fish were kept in the cistern to alert officials to water quality issues.

Visitor Facilitie
The Basilica Cistern functions as an underground museum. Facilities are limited, with the Basilica Cistern Cafe near the entrance offering a selection of hot and cold beverages.

Explore this 1500-year-old marvel and uncover the secrets of the Basilica Cistern, a true historical gem in Istanbul and its one the most amazing things to do in Turkey.