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Basilica Cistern, Istanbul

4.5

#3 of 5,540 in Things to do in Turkey

Explore the largest of hundreds of ancient cisterns located below the city at Basilica Cistern. This fascinating chamber of the underground water systems, commissioned in 532 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian, is remarkable for its practical and artistic value. After a complete renovation in the 1980s, the cistern became one of the most popular tourist sites in Istanbul's Sultanahmet district. Walk along the wooden platforms beneath the dark, vaulted ceilings of this cathedral-sized cistern and see its famous Medusa-head pillar and Hen's Eye column. Put Basilica Cistern at the forefront of your travel plans using our Istanbul holiday planning website .

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Basilica Cistern Tours

Imperial Istanbul Half-Day Tour: Hagia Sophia, Basillica Cistern and Grand Bazaar BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $55

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Private Half-day Tour: Imperial Istanbul - Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern and Grand Bazaar BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $42

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Basilica Cistern Reviews

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27,799 reviews

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4.5

By Asia G On October 17, 2018

È un luogo molto suggestivo, peccato che in questo mese di ottobre sia per metà impalacata e coperta perché la stanno ristrutturando. Per carità, è una buona cosa, ma a l'illuminazione era davvero sca... more »

Is a very impressive place, too bad that in this month of October is half indoor and impalacata because they are renovating. For goodness sake, it's a good thing, but the lighting was really poor and rapidly accessible place because available only half. I was with my dad and he told me that there was a difference with a clear shot from marquees and bright lights, to when he visited a few years ago. The price is economical to visit and prior to joining make a control. If you find yourself Sultanamhet, let us jump!

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By NestaCaerdydd On October 17, 2018

The cistern is undergoing renovation so the water has been drained out, but it was still atmospheric and impressive. more »
By Nick W On October 17, 2018

Visit with a guide (well worth it in my opinion) it was amazing to be walking around underneath Istanbul. The size of the cistern is incredible. The Medusa heads and tear column were particular highli... more »

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By andrey a On June 21, 2018

This place is the part of the history. Funny to stay at artificial water tank made 15 centuries ago. But that is all. When you step inside basilica is dark and wet. All you see around is few black columns and other visitors. Only tourist way is heavy lighted, everything else is hidden in the dark.

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By Nouf Alfallaj On July 13, 2018

One of the most amazing sightseeing in Istanbul..100% worth your time. Unlike most of Istanbul recommended sightseeing..this one is different. Basically: columns and water in a dark place with mud smell.. but the details are breathtaking

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By Francesco Orfei On May 17, 2018

This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Turkey. It is a place that you cannot describe appropriately, you must visit it. Each step you make you see columns and columns but the scene is always different. If you like taking pictures bring your tripod, It's a great place for impressive pictures. The temperature inside is not so low as in a cavern, but neither hot, so simply bring a light jacket and that's it.

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By Adam Larsson On July 13, 2018

If you love history or if you are simply just a Dan Brown fan or if you just want to visit an amazing place then this is a place for you! Incredible feeling to walk down and see a part of history unfolding before your eyes! One of my top three places that I visited in Istanbul so far!

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By Mikelis Vasarais On July 2, 2018

We thought the caverns were great! The 100,000 liters of water that could be stored is very impressive as are the columns and the Medusa heads in the base of the marble columns. You should definitely stop here. Plus it will allow you to cool down after staying in the heat in lines for the mosques.

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