Taksim Gezi Park | Istanbul

The Yerebatan Cistern (Turkish: Yerebatan Sarnıcı), also known as the Basilica Cistern, is one of the most fascinating historical sites in Istanbul. Located in the Sultanahmet district, just a short walk from famous landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, this underground structure is an impressive example of Byzantine engineering and architecture.

Overview and History

The Yerebatan Cistern was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, around the year 532 AD, as part of a broader effort to supply water to the growing city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). It is one of the largest and best-preserved of the many cisterns that were constructed throughout the city to store water brought from the Belgrade Forest via aqueducts.

The name Yerebatan translates to "sunken" or "sunken palace", which is an apt description, given the vast, subterranean nature of the cistern. The cistern is often referred to as the Basilica Cistern because it is located beneath the Basilica (a large public building) that was in the area during the Byzantine period. The cistern was intended to store water for the Great Palace of Constantinople, but it was also used to supply water to other parts of the city.

Architecture and Features

The Yerebatan Cistern is an architectural marvel, known for its size, unique design, and striking visual beauty.

1. Size and Layout

The cistern covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters and is about 140 meters long and 70 meters wide. It has the capacity to hold 80,000 cubic meters (about 21 million gallons) of water.

It is supported by 336 marble columns, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each. These columns are separated by vaulted arches and are mostly Corinthian style, giving the cistern an elegant, monumental appearance.

The cistern’s ceiling is supported by these columns, and there is a series of arched ceilings that make the space feel vast and almost cathedral-like.

2. Lighting and Atmosphere

The cistern is dimly lit with a soft, atmospheric lighting that enhances its eerie and mysterious atmosphere. Visitors walk along raised walkways above the water, and the soft, golden lighting reflects off the water’s surface, creating a magical, almost otherworldly ambiance.

The cistern also features reflective pools of water that used to be much deeper when the cistern was in use. Today, the water is shallow, but it still contributes to the haunting beauty of the space.

3. Water and Its Function

The cistern was designed to store water for Constantinople’s inhabitants, particularly for the palaces and public buildings of the Byzantine Empire. The water was supplied from the Aqueduct of Valens, which brought water from the Belgrade Forest into the city.

The cistern was capable of supplying water to the Great Palace and other key structures for several months, even during times of siege or drought.

4. Medusa Heads

One of the most famous features of the Yerebatan Cistern is the two Medusa heads that are used as bases for two of the columns in the cistern. The Medusa heads are Greek mythological symbols, each featuring the gorgon — a mythical creature whose gaze was said to turn people into stone. The heads are not aligned symmetrically, and one is placed upside down while the other is sideways. This has been the subject of much speculation, with theories suggesting that the heads were repurposed from earlier Roman buildings.

The Medusa heads are iconic and have become symbols of the cistern, giving it a mystical, eerie quality.

5. Fish in the Water

The cistern's water is home to many small fish, which are typically carp and have been introduced to the space as part of the cistern’s current management. These fish swim among the columns, adding an extra touch of life to the otherwise still and tranquil waters.

Visiting the Yerebatan Cistern

The Yerebatan Cistern is a popular tourist attraction in Istanbul, and it provides a unique opportunity to explore one of the city’s ancient subterranean structures. Here's what visitors can expect:

Entrance: Visitors can enter the cistern from the street level via a staircase, which leads down into the underground space. The entrance is located near the Hagia Sophia.

Admission: There is a small entrance fee to visit the cistern, and it is open to the public every day of the week. It is recommended to check the current opening hours and any potential closures for maintenance before your visit.

Walking Paths: Once inside, visitors can walk along wooden platforms that are elevated above the water, which allows for an up-close view of the columns, the water, and the Medusa heads. These walkways help to preserve the integrity of the cistern while still offering visitors the chance to experience its grandeur.

Guided Tours: Audio guides and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the cistern's history, architecture, and its place in Istanbul's past. The guides provide valuable context to the cistern's fascinating history, from its construction in the Byzantine period to its restoration and use today.

The Cistern’s Role in Culture and Media

The Yerebatan Cistern has also played a role in Istanbul’s cultural life, particularly in the world of film and media. The haunting, dark atmosphere of the cistern has made it an ideal location for movies and TV shows, and it is famously featured in the James Bond movie "From Russia with Love" (1963), where it was used as a location for a thrilling chase scene.

In addition to its cinematic appearances, the cistern remains an important part of Istanbul's cultural and architectural heritage, frequently featured in documentaries and history-based programs about the city's Byzantine past.

Preservation and Conservation

The Yerebatan Cistern is carefully preserved and maintained by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality. Efforts are made to ensure that the cistern remains stable and safe for visitors, while also protecting its unique historical and architectural features. Over the years, the cistern has undergone several restoration efforts to ensure its structural integrity and the preservation of its original beauty.

Conclusion

The Yerebatan Cistern is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and one of Istanbul’s most intriguing historical sites. As an iconic underground structure, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the advanced architectural techniques of the Byzantine Empire. With its towering columns, haunting Medusa heads, and tranquil waters, the cistern is an atmospheric and memorable experience that brings history to life in a truly unique setting. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Yerebatan Cistern is an unmissable destination in Istanbul.