Basilica Cistern Palace… When tourism in Istanbul becomes an adventure

When coming on a trip for tourism in Turkey When visiting Istanbul, everyone knows that one of the most famous tourist destinations in Istanbul is Sultan Ahmed Square, and therefore tourists from all over the world visit it for its richness in archaeological sites and buildings such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and others

Its external appearance may not draw the attention of the passerby, who must notice a gathering of tourists queues near a small rectangular room near Hagia Sophia, which is the palace of the Basilica Cistern.

The “basilica cistern” or the submerged palace is located in the Sultanahmet area, west of the Hagia Sophia Museum and is open almost throughout the day and can be entered at a nominal ticket price

History of the Basilica Cistern Palace

The history of this cistern dates back to the sixth century AD, as it was built during the era of the Byzantine Empire during its rule of Constantinople during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, in the style of the famous Parisian tombs.

The reservoir was built on the site of the basilica plateau dating back to the Roman era in the fourth century AD, as it was a commercial, artistic and legal center at the time.

In the era of the Ottoman Empire, it was used as a tank with a system to purify the water of the surrounding area, and it provided water mainly for the Sultans’ Palace “Topkapi” and the Sultanahmet area, and it remained so until the modern era.

Contents of the Basilica Cistern Palace in Istanbul

The basilica is also called the “Sunken Palace” and the reason for its name is that it is built in the form of a palace with its columns, bridges, design, and being submerged in water with a height of half a meter.

Bridges have been built over it to facilitate movement and roaming in the place, as it is lit inside with yellow light, giving the palace the character of mystery and awe.

The basilica is also characterized by the presence of giant, luxurious columns, which are reflected on the surface of the floors, which are made of very smooth tiles, in a way that captures the eyes.

At the end of the reservoir or the palace, the famous legendary Medusa column stands in a darker spot, where the head of Medusa, with its intricate and famous inscriptions, appears upside down. The legend tells that Medusa was tasked with protecting the place by turning those who wanted evil to him into stone.

Today, the Basilica Reservoir has become a destination for tourists and visitors from all over the world

It also hosts concerts by bands and singers from all over the world and various events.

Perhaps the acquisition of this great fame did not come from nowhere, as the basilica cistern, which dates back to the era of the ancient city of Constantinople, is still preserving its appearance to this day.