Basilica Cistern: A Marvelous Underground Wonder

Located in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, the Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water reservoir that is steeped in history and architectural beauty. Known as the largest surviving Byzantine cistern, it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, drawing in thousands of visitors every year. In this article, we will explore the history and architecture of the Basilica Cistern in detail, providing you with an insight into this marvelous underground wonder.

History of the Basilica Cistern

The history of  Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Sarayi in Turkish, was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century AD. It was designed to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings in the city. The cistern has a total capacity of 80,000 cubic meters of water, and it was in use until the Ottoman period when it was abandoned.

During the Byzantine era, the cistern was called the Basilica Cistern because it was built underneath the Stoa Basilica, a great public square. The Stoa Basilica no longer exists today, but the cistern remains, a testament to the engineering skills of the Byzantine era.

Architecture of the Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern Architecture is an impressive feat of engineering and architecture. The cistern is rectangular in shape, measuring approximately 138 meters long and 64.6 meters wide. It is supported by 336 marble columns that are arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each. The columns are thought to have been salvaged from earlier classical buildings and feature a variety of designs, including Corinthian and Doric.

One of the most remarkable features of the cistern is the two Medusa heads that are located at the base of two columns. These are believed to have been brought to the cistern from an earlier pagan temple, and their exact purpose remains a mystery. The heads are placed upside down and sideways, adding to the mystery and intrigue of the cistern.

The cistern is also equipped with a sophisticated system of vaults, arches, and domes, which help distribute the weight of the water and support the structure. The ceiling of the cistern is made of brick, and it is covered with waterproof mortar, which has helped to preserve the cistern over the centuries.

The Basilica Cistern Today

Today, the Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the cistern by walking along a raised wooden platform that runs along the water’s edge. The cistern has been lit with atmospheric lighting, which creates a mystical ambiance that is truly unique.

The Basilica Cistern has also been used as a filming location for many movies and TV shows, including the James Bond film “From Russia with Love” and the Dan Brown novel “Inferno.”

Conclusion

The Basilica Cistern is a remarkable piece of architecture and engineering that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and stunning design continue to attract visitors from all over the world. A visit to the cistern is an experience that is not to be missed. So if you are planning a trip to Istanbul, make sure to add the Basilica Cistern to your itinerary.

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