Experience it at your leisure with skip-the-line tickets. Admire the architecture and delve deeper into the history of this remarkable structure as you navigate through its intriguing spaces.
Embark on a Guided Exploration of the Basilica Cistern, where beneath the vibrant streets of Istanbul, a realm rich in secrets and centuries of history awaits. Our Basilica Cistern Guided Tour beckons you to delve into the enigmatic depths of this subterranean marvel, once a vital lifeline for the inhabitants of Constantinople.
Traverse softly illuminated chambers and be captivated by the spectacle of 336 grand columns, some adorned with the entrancing gaze of the legendary Medusa. Our team of experienced guides will skillfully transport you through time, weaving narratives of emperors, visionary architects, and enduring legends that have etched an unforgettable legacy on this mesmerizing underground masterpiece.
Secure your spot today for an adventure seamlessly blending the past with the present.
Note: Tickets are non-refundable.
Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the Basilica Cistern is one of the largest ancient cisterns in Istanbul. It once provided water to the Great Palace and the surrounding areas and stands as an engineering marvel of Byzantine architecture.
The Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern are ancient and mysterious, with one placed upside-down and the other sideways. Their origin and purpose remain a topic of intrigue and speculation among historians.
Tickets can be purchased online for convenience, allowing you to skip the ticket line.
There is no time limit for how long you can stay inside the Basilica Cistern once you enter, so you are free to explore at your own pace.
The Basilica Cistern is located in the heart of Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district, within walking distance from the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. It is easily accessible via public transportation, including the tram (T1 line), bus, and taxi.