Located directly beneath Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet Square is one of the city's most enchanting and mysterious structures: the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı). More than a water reservoir, this structure resembles an underground palace made of marble columns. It preserves the grandeur of Byzantine engineering and architecture within its dark waters, offering visitors a truly mystical experience.

 

Historical Depth: Byzantium's Water Source

 

The Basilica Cistern was commissioned by the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Emperor Justinian I and was constructed in 532 AD.

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• Meeting Water Needs: The primary purpose of the Cistern was to supply water to the Great Palace and the surrounding buildings. It served as a vital water reserve for the city, especially during potential sieges. The cistern received its water via a 19-kilometer system of aqueducts from the Belgrade Forest.

• Origin of the Name: The Turkish name "Yerebatan" (meaning "sinking into the ground") comes from a large basilica that previously stood on the site. "Sarnıç" simply means cistern or reservoir.

 

Architectural Features: The Dance of Marble Columns

 

The Cistern's architecture is an extraordinary Byzantine structure that merges functionality with artistic aesthetics.

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• Immense Capacity: This colossal underground structure, approximately 140 meters long and 70 meters wide, has an estimated capacity to store 80,000 tons of water.

• 336 Marble Columns: The most striking feature of the Cistern is the 336 marble columns that support the interior, creating what appears to be a stone forest. These columns, each 9 meters high, are arranged in 12 rows with 28 columns per row. Interestingly, a significant portion of these columns were gathered from the remains of older temples and structures (devşirme or spolia). This practice results in various column capital styles, including Ionian, Corinthian, and Early Byzantine.

• The Mysterious Medusa Heads: In the northwest corner of the Cistern, two Medusa Head sculptures are used as column bases, positioned upside down and sideways. These Roman-era sculptures continue to hold their mystery regarding why and for what purpose they were placed here. It remains a subject of debate whether the Byzantine masters intended them to ward off evil or simply used them as sturdy base supports.

 

Tip for Tourists: As you explore the Basilica Cistern, the dim light filtering through the columns, the reflections on the water's surface, and the echoing sounds of dripping water will offer you an unforgettable experience. Don't forget to see the Medusa Heads and feel the magic of history in the cool atmosphere of this unique subterranean world.

 

Are you ready to witness one of the most mysterious pages of history in this magnificent Byzantine water reservoir?