Also known as Yerebatan Sarayi or Yerebatan Sarnici, the basilica cistern Istanbul is amongst the largest ancient water cisterns in all of Turkey. A perfect example of the traditional Byzantine style of architecture, this cistern is also the abode of stunning sculptures, including that of the Hen’s Eye Column as well as the Medusa Pillar Bases. Located in close proximity to attractions like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in the city, the basilica cistern Istanbul also dates back to the 6th century, when it was built by the Byzantian emperor Justinian I, in 542 AD. The cistern was constructed to serve as a place for water storage for the Great Palace during the Byzantine eras, and for the Topkapi Palace during the Ottoman eras.

Attracting many millions of tourists every year, the basilica cistern Istanbul spans across an expanse of more than 9,800 square metres, and boasts of 336 columns, all of which are unique and beautiful in their own ways. The cistern, at its very best, could hold 80,000 cubic metres of water, which was filtered and then sent to different monuments in the city. It was first opened to tourists in the year 1987 after extensive repairs made by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality.

The basilica cistern Istanbul is believed to have been built in 532 AD by Justinian I, the Byzantine emperor. Measuring approximately 453 by 212 feet, the basilica cistern architecture boasts of a traditional Byzantine style. It can store almost 80,000 cubic metres of water at a time to supply water to the palace as well as the entire city of Byzantium. At the time when it was constructed, the basilica cistern Istanbul was located under the Stoa Basilica, which also gives it the name of “Basilica.”

In the year 476 AD, the Basilica Cistern was reconstructed by Illus, after parts of it were damaged by fire. Back then, it was decided that the basilica would consist of gardens, and would be surrounded by a colonnade, whilst also facing the Hagia Sophia. In the erstwhile eras, the basilica cistern Istanbul served as a water reservoir, and provided water for the Great Palace of Constantinople, and other buildings located on the First Hill. It also provided water for the Topkapi Palace during the Ottoman eras and has continued into the modern times as well.

Throughout history, the basilica cistern Istanbul has undergone a lot of repair, during the 18th century as well as multiple times in the 19th century by Sultan Abdulhamid II. The present-day Cistern was built by Constantine, and had fallen into disguise during the reign of the Ottoman. However, it was many years later, when scholar Petrus Gyllius found the monument, that the Cistern gained its lost fame back. As of today, it boasts of many raised wooden platforms, along with vaulted ceilings and a myriad of attractions, all of which make the basilica cistern Istanbul one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

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