Hidden beneath the bustling streets of İstanbul lies one of the city's most mesmerizing and mysterious attractions—the Basilica Cistern. Known locally as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, this underground marvel is not just a feat of ancient engineering but also one of the most atmospheric historical sites in Turkey, drawing visitors from all over the world.

Constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, the Basilica Cistern was originally built to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople. Fed by aqueducts from the Belgrade Forest, it once held up to 80,000 cubic meters of water. Over time, this massive subterranean reservoir was forgotten and rediscovered centuries later—quite literally beneath the feet of unsuspecting locals. Today, to visit Basilica Cistern is to walk through a surreal space where İstanbul's rich past feels hauntingly alive.

What makes this cistern so captivating is its sheer size and architectural grandeur. Spanning approximately 138 by 64 meters, the Basilica Cistern is supported by 336 marble columns, many of which were repurposed from older Roman structures. These columns rise majestically from the shallow waters, giving the space a haunting, cathedral-like ambiance. Among the most famous features are two column bases carved with the face of Medusa, a figure from Greek mythology. These Medusa heads—one placed sideways and the other upside down—are shrouded in mystery and continue to fascinate historians and tourists alike.

A stroll along the raised wooden walkways reveals softly lit reflections dancing on the water, accompanied by gentle echoes that amplify the cistern’s otherworldly atmosphere. In recent years, the space has also hosted art installations, concerts, and cinematic moments—most notably in movies like From Russia with Love and Inferno.

Today, the Basilica Cistern is open to the public and remains one of the top things to see in İstanbul. Following a major restoration and modernization project, it now includes updated lighting, better ventilation, and improved accessibility, making it easier than ever for visitors of all ages to experience its magic. Entry tickets are available on-site and online, with discounts for students and Turkish citizens. The site is typically open daily, but checking the latest schedules before your visit is recommended. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and be respectful of the peaceful, historic surroundings.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking to discover hidden gems beneath the surface of İstanbul, the Basilica Cistern offers a journey back in time—beautifully preserved in darkness and silence.

Basilica Cistern

Visit Basilica Cistern in İstanbul, Turkey, a captivating underground wonder and one of the most iconic historical sites in Turkey. Discover the Medusa columns, Byzantine architecture, and mysterious legends in this must-see attraction. Perfect for history lovers and travelers seeking unique things to see in Istanbul.

The two Medusa Heads are among the most iconic and mysterious features in the Basilica Cistern. Used as bases for two columns in the northwest corner, these ancient stone heads depict the mythical Gorgon, Medusa. Believed to be reused from Roman ruins, the exact origin remains uncertain. One head is placed sideways, and the other is upside down, possibly to negate Medusa's power or as a symbol of Byzantine repurposing. The faces are intricately carved from marble and stand out in the dim, atmospheric lighting of the cistern. The Medusa heads attract countless visitors daily, often leaving them captivated by their eerie presence and mythological intrigue. Today, they are a top photo opportunity and a cultural highlight when you visit Basilica Cistern.

Medusa Heads

Discover the mysterious Medusa Heads at Basilica Cistern in İstanbul—ancient Roman sculptures shrouded in myth, now a must-see highlight in this historical Turkish landmark.

Medusa Heads

Istanbul, Turkey

Discover the mysterious Medusa Heads at Basilica Cistern in İstanbul—ancient Roman sculptures shrouded in myth, now a must-see highlight in this historical Turkish landmark.

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