ISTANBUL, Turkey / Türkiye — The cistern, located 500 feet of the Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula of Sarayburnu, was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Basilica Cistern, located in Istanbul, Turkey, is an extraordinary example of Byzantine engineering and architectural prowess. Constructed in the 6th century under the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the cistern served as a crucial water reservoir for the city, especially for the Great Palace of Constantinople and other buildings in the area. Known locally as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, or "Cistern of the Basilica," this vast underground chamber measures approximately 138 meters long and 65 meters wide, capable of holding up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. The cistern is supported by 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows. One of the most famous features of the Basilica Cistern is the two Medusa heads used as column bases, whose origins and purpose remain a subject of intrigue and legend. The dimly lit, atmospheric interior, often accompanied by the sound of dripping water, creates a serene and somewhat mysterious environment. Today, the Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the city's rich historical and architectural heritage. Its preservation and continued allure highlight the ingenuity of Byzantine engineering and its impact on modern-day Istanbul.
Size: 2849px × 4290px
Location: Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Istanbul Province, Turkey
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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