The Basilica Cistern

A Glimpse into Byzantium’s Engineering Marvel

The Basilica Cistern, also known as in Turkish or the “Sunken Palace,” is one of the most fascinating remnants of Byzantine architecture in Istanbul. Built between 527-565 AD under the orders of Emperor Justinian I, this immense underground water reservoir is not only a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural capabilities of the Byzantine Empire but also a living piece of the city’s rich history. The cistern was constructed as part of the city’s ambitious rebuilding efforts following the destruction caused by the Nika riots in 532 AD, and it remains one of the largest and most impressive cisterns still standing in Istanbul today.

A Vital Component of Constantinople’s Water System

During the Byzantine period, cisterns were integral to the city’s water management system, especially during the dry summer months when water supplies were scarce. More than 200 cisterns are known to have existed in ancient Constantinople, but the Basilica Cistern was the largest and most significant. Built on the site of the former Stoa Basilica, the cistern spans an area of about 10,000 square meters, with a water storage capacity of 80,000 tons. Its strategic location beneath the Basilica meant that it supplied water to the Great Palace, the surrounding buildings, and the imperial court. Water was brought to the cistern through a network of aqueducts, including the Hadrianus Aqueduct, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh water to the heart of the city.

Architectural Grandeur: Columns, Carvings, and the Medusa Heads

The Basilica Cistern is a marvel of Byzantine engineering, with 336 columns supporting its vast ceiling. These columns, standing at an impressive 9 meters in height, are spaced 4.8 meters apart, arranged in 12 rows. The majority of the columns are made from marble, with some featuring intricate carvings. The capitals of these columns display a variety of styles, from the elaborate Corinthian design to simple, unadorned forms, reflecting the diverse architectural influences of the time. The cistern’s walls, made of brick and over 4.8 meters thick, are coated with a layer of mortar that makes them waterproof, ensuring the cistern’s functionality for centuries.

One of the most striking features of the Basilica Cistern is the pair of Medusa heads, which are used as column bases at the western and eastern ends of the structure. These heads are notable not only for their exceptional craftsmanship but also for their curious orientation—one is placed upside down, while the other lies on its side. The Medusa heads have sparked numerous legends and are considered one of the finest examples of Roman-era sculpture. Their discovery during restoration efforts in the 1980s added to the mystique of the cistern, attracting visitors from around the world who come to marvel at both the architectural splendor and the fascinating historical stories associated with these iconic sculptures.

Restoration and Cultural Significance

Over the centuries, the Basilica Cistern underwent several phases of restoration, particularly during the Ottoman period. The cistern continued to serve as a water source for the Topkapı Palace after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453 and remained in use for centuries. It underwent its first restoration during the reign of Sultan Ahmed III and was further renovated under Sultan Abdulhamid II. More significant repairs were made between 1955 and 1960 to reinforce the columns that were at risk of collapsing. A major restoration project in the 1980s, led by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, uncovered the Medusa heads and helped preserve the cistern as a historical site.

Today, the Basilica Cistern is a museum and one of Istanbul’s most visited tourist attractions. The cistern’s serene atmosphere, enhanced by soft lighting and music, allows visitors to step back in time and imagine what it must have been like when it was a crucial part of the Byzantine water supply system. With its vast array of columns and its unique historical and architectural features, the cistern serves as a reminder of the Byzantine Empire’s engineering prowess and its lasting impact on the city of Istanbul.

The Basilica Cistern stands as a remarkable symbol of the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire. With its monumental size, architectural complexity, and rich history, it offers a rare glimpse into the advanced engineering techniques of the time. As one of the most significant surviving structures from Byzantine Constantinople, the cistern continues to be a vital part of Istanbul’s cultural heritage. Whether as a historical landmark, an architectural wonder, or a tourist attraction, the Basilica Cistern remains a testament to the enduring legacy of the Byzantine Empire.

Yerebatan or Basilica Cistern is open for visiting everyday from 9 AM to 11.50 PM.