This place is spectacular! Very dramatic and unique architectural design. Can not imagine how this place is well conserved. Each column structure has a very remarkable character. Very spacious and self-guided once you enter. It would have been nice if they offer a recorded audio tour to give people the opportunity to learn more about the place. If you want to skip the line highly recommend purchasing your tickets online. Also, note there is no restroom on site.

Exploring the Basilica Cistern felt like stepping into a hidden world beneath Istanbul's bustling streets. The eerie beauty of the Medusa heads, the whispered secrets of the Hagia Sophia's recycled columns, and the mystique of the Crying Column added layers to the experience. However, the ticketing system detracted from the overall enjoyment. Try to get your ticket from Passo, and do not wait in the queue. Despite this hiccup, it's an essential stop for history buffs. 80TL for Turkish people and 600TL for foreigners.

Basilica Cistern is one of the largest and most popular cisterns located in Istanbul. Among the hundreds of cisterns, Basilica Cistern is the largest one open to the public. It lies in the prominent peninsula that is also home to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Built by the infamous Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the year 542, the structure was used to meet the water needs of the palaces. The Basilica Cistern is a famous historical site that brings millions of tourists every year. It is approximately 140 meters in length and 70 meters in breadth, spanning across an area of 9,800 square meters. The grand cistern consists of 336 columns, 9 meters long and placed 4.8 meters away. Each of the columns is different from one another. The most noteworthy part of the Basilica Cistern is the two Medusa heads. The two heads bespoke the marvellous Roman architecture and are believed to be taken from a famous antique building. Located on the north-western side of the cistern, the two heads form the base of two pillars. It could hold 80,000 cubic meters of water that was filtered and sent to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other important buildings on the First Hill. The Basilica Cistern was opened to tourists in 1987 after the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality made extensive repairs. Also known as the Subterranean Palace, the grand structure of marble pillars makes for a great tourist experience.

Well worth a visit. It's an awesome place. Nice and cool on a hot day. Some little sculptures dotted around and a mini sound and light show every so often. Occasionally turns most of the lights off, so watch your step. Apparently they used some of it for Bond and Darren Brown movies. Buy tickets online on advance and you can skip a lot of the VERY long queue! (Qr code by the queue to do so)

During my recent trip to Istanbul, I decided to explore the Basilica Cistern, and it proved to be a worthwhile experience. The cistern's historical significance and unique architecture are undoubtedly interesting, making it worth a visit for those interested in ancient wonders. The underground structure's vastness, supported by rows of ancient columns, creates a striking visual impact. The dimly lit ambiance adds an air of mystery, making it an intriguing place to explore. Learning about its Roman origins and how it functioned as a water reservoir in the past provided some interesting historical insights. However, while I found the Basilica Cistern to be a fascinating site, it didn't leave a lasting impression on me as some other historical attractions have. The lack of in-depth interpretation and limited informative resources made it challenging to fully appreciate the cistern's historical context and significance. As a result, I wouldn't highly recommend it to everyone visiting Istanbul, but it is certainly worth considering for those who have an interest in ancient history and architecture. During my visit, there was a substantial line outside the cistern, but fortunately, it moved relatively quickly, allowing me to enter without much delay. Once inside, the number of visitors was manageable, which made for a more pleasant experience as I could explore the cistern at my own pace. In conclusion, the Basilica Cistern is worth a visit for its historical significance and unique architecture. However, it may not leave a profound impression on everyone, and its appeal might be more subjective. If you have an interest in ancient history and are looking for an intriguing underground experience in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern is worth considering.

This is a must see when in Istanbul Turkey. The weekend we were here, there was a wait line but it moves pretty fast. We waited for our guide ans watched the people in line. If you want to bypass the line you need a tour guide. They will charge you for the tickets and tour 15-25 US per person. We only have 3 days here so the tour guide made sense. Beautiful cistern, 336 columns in total. They just renovated, and improved the walking platforms, made them higher. During contraction there was some modern art added. Looks amazing along with the original artifacts. Since the renovation, the entrance is at the side if the main building. Not the little one. It's just around the corner. 20 second walk. There are security guards that will help you. If meeting a guide, make sure you know where you meet them.

During my recent trip to Istanbul, I decided to explore the Basilica Cistern, and it proved to be a worthwhile experience. The cistern's historical significance and unique architecture are undoubtedly interesting, making it worth a visit for those interested in ancient wonders. The underground structure's vastness, supported by rows of ancient columns, creates a striking visual impact. The dimly lit ambiance adds an air of mystery, making it an intriguing place to explore. Learning about its Roman origins and how it functioned as a water reservoir in the past provided some interesting historical insights. However, while I found the Basilica Cistern to be a fascinating site, it didn't leave a lasting impression on me as some other historical attractions have. The lack of in-depth interpretation and limited informative resources made it challenging to fully appreciate the cistern's historical context and significance. As a result, I wouldn't highly recommend it to everyone visiting Istanbul, but it is certainly worth considering for those who have an interest in ancient history and architecture. During my visit, there was a substantial line outside the cistern, but fortunately, it moved relatively quickly, allowing me to enter without much delay. Once inside, the number of visitors was manageable, which made for a more pleasant experience as I could explore the cistern at my own pace. In conclusion, the Basilica Cistern is worth a visit for its historical significance and unique architecture. However, it may not leave a profound impression on everyone, and its appeal might be more subjective. If you have an interest in ancient history and are looking for an intriguing underground experience in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern is worth considering.

The cistern was made specially to supply the water demand of Istanbul and the palace. Inside of this mysterious place, the most interesting column is the one with the Medusa head on it. Water, lights and the location of these columns, will make you wonder the meaning of life. Even though it is a museum today, there are still lots of activities are being done inside. And if you are a Hollywood fan, you will remember the James Bond movie, ‘‘From Russian with Love” in which he gets across underground Istanbul on a boat, via the Basilica Cistern.

Beautiful historical place deserves to be watched once in life! Doesn't deserve to kill your whole day waiting in line you can pass it! There's online tickes that i truly recommend to book before going The place is historical and beautiful the lights are helping in showing you different views! The water reflection is beautiful 😍

A quite interesting water facility, feels like a different world indeed. Quite a splendid engineering work. Just be mindful for the long queue and humid/warm inside environment, and there might be water drops fall on you here and there. Alao the entrance is not the most obvious building in the area. But in general can recommend to visit.

It lies in the prominent peninsula that is also home to Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Built by the infamous Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the year 542, the structure was used to meet the water needs of the palaces. The Basilica Cistern is a famous historical site that brings millions of tourists every year.

This is a must see. This historical place appeared in a Dan Brown movie inferno. So just based on that I had to stop in. Many structures are supported by pillars and arches. The pillars were scavenged from wherever they could be. Built out of same type brick and mortar as Hagia Sophia. Really quite a masterfully built cistern.

It was the best experience to see Basilica Cistern. The lightening show was fascinating. I took a lot of photos. There are some sculptures which are very impressive. I really like all of them. We bought our tickets online before visiting, i recommend that because you can enter easily without waiting if you buy online. This place should be seen it by everyone.

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul was an unexpected discovery on my trip, and what a remarkable find it was. Prior to stumbling upon it, I was completely unaware of its existence. For those planning a visit, while the waiting lines might seem daunting, a convenient workaround is to purchase your tickets online. At $25.00 per person, the tickets were quite reasonable, especially considering the unique experience it offers. When we visited, it was surprisingly not crowded, which greatly enhanced the overall experience. The Basilica Cistern presents a surreal atmosphere that's unlike anything I've ever seen. The combination of the dim lighting, the still water reflecting the ceiling, and the rows of ancient pillars creates a scene right out of a fantasy novel. The tranquility of the place allows for a very relaxing visit. With the sparse crowd, we had ample privacy to take photos, capturing the eerie beauty of this underground marvel without interruption. The serene environment, coupled with the architectural and historical significance of the cistern, makes for a truly enchanting experience. I strongly recommend taking your time to soak in the atmosphere of the Basilica Cistern. Rushing through would only rob you of the full experience this ancient wonder has to offer. It's a testament to Istanbul's rich history and is definitely a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the less conventional attractions of the city.

One of the our wishlist, we went there on 17 June and it’s closed for renovation but there’s no any sign outside when the renovation will be finished. The guy who stand in front around that area just told us that it’s closed 🥲

Absolutely gorgeous! Note, many say to purchase tickets online. We could not find the website, but maybe were stupid :-) we did have a long line which wrapped around the building when we got there. However, the line goes very fast! It’s not such a big deal to wait. We also did not get a guide, although they were several that were offering their services. It is so beautiful and cool and damp inside. It was amazing to think that this Fed fall of Constantinople! We had calculated that the water would last about a week for 1 million people.

The Basilica Cistern is a captivating historical site. Buying tickets online is a wise move, as the ticket queue can be extensive. While there are some individuals selling tickets at a premium of 15 lira, it's best to avoid them. The beauty of the place is undeniable, enhanced by the innovative use of various lights. The interplay of light with the water's surface creates mesmerizing reflections. The overall design of the cistern is truly astonishing, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and architecture. Visiting this location provides a glimpse into history while being treated to a visual spectacle.

This is a very popular tourist attraction and the line to get in can be very long. We were very lucky and we got in almost without a wait, because the people stood at the line with online tickets and we walked to the ticket office without any problem. Just be aware of which line you need to go, because the signs are small and people don't pay attention. The inside is very humid and hot, even with autumn temperatures outside, it's better to have layers of clothes, otherwise it's going to be a hard time inside.

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is an absolutely beautiful historical site that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city's rich past. Walking through the cistern, with its eerily beautiful lighting and the soft sound of water dripping in the background, feels like stepping into another world. The architectural marvel and the Medusa heads add to the mystique of the place, making it a memorable experience. However, the visit is not without its drawbacks. The admission price feels slightly too high considering the short duration of the visit. Furthermore, the area can become overcrowded, which detracts from the serene and mysterious atmosphere that makes the Basilica Cistern so special. It can be challenging to fully appreciate the beauty and historical significance of the place when navigating through large crowds. Despite these issues, the Basilica Cistern is undoubtedly worth visiting for its unique beauty and the glimpse it offers into Istanbul's historical depth. It earns a solid four stars, with the hope that future management might address the concerns regarding pricing and crowd control to enhance the visitor experience even further.

A historical piece of Istanbul, which has been turned into an art-show / moody experience. Very fun. But definitely but tickets online! The line was very long To the photographers out there: expect very low light conditions with near-constantly changing light patterns. It's also very busy, so no time for long exposures or clear views. So, a very challenging shoot. But that's why we do it, yeah? ;) Bring your primes, keep shutter speed to around 1/60, and buy Topaz Denoise.

The cistern of officially open after renovations were completed. What a beautiful experience this was. We were immersed in history with the wonderful architecture on display. An absolute marvel and architectural feat of its time. The light show was amazing as you go from warm lighting to absolute darkness at times. It adds to the eery atmosphere as a whole. Some modern art has been added to the cistern and the Medusa heads are the undeniable star attraction here. Thoroughly enjoyed our trip and it helped a lot that we had arrived early. We had more time and weren’t rushed to see the attraction. Helpful tips: Please make sure that you buy tickets online to avoid the massive queues. As we stayed closed by, we arrived before 9 am and there was already a queue. It moved quickly thankfully but does get extremely busy throughout the day. Please ensure that you have your phone or torch close by as it can get very dark inside with the light show and you can misplace your step. As the walkway is just above water level and is slippery! Make sure you carry shoes or sneakers with sufficient grip.

The Basilica Cistern is a hidden gem in Istanbul! Exploring its ancient chambers by night is an enchanting experience. The serene ambiance amidst fewer crowds adds to the mystique. Moreover, the cherry on top—a delightful treat provided at the end—makes the visit even more special. A must-see historical marvel that becomes even more magical after dusk!

What a special place. It's awesome to step in such an ancient monument where it was built to bring in a necessary resource. It was busy but worth it and I also was there on a weekend. The Cistern was so calm and quiet. It was amazing to see the workmanship of an ancient people still accessible today. One of the best places I went in Istanbul.

I liked this place so much, although it is not big and needs not more than 15-20 mins, but very worth it for the history lovers like me. It was the roman longest water supply line back in time, all the place is built on water, the lights added inside is giving the columns a majestic look more than they already are. I would recommend to limit the number of visitors and kids inside for a better experience and maybe more information/explanation boards.. The place is accessible for wheelchairs. I recommend you to check it out, one good place for tourists 👍🏼

First time visiting an ancient cistern. You can see the wisdom of ancient human being after going to this place. 1. If you don't want to wait too long, remember to visit it at the morning. It might be too many people at noon and you need to wait 20 minutes minimum. 2. As a underground water filtration system that was built in the 6th century during the reign of Justinian I, it is magnificent. The lightnings inside are great, brilliant place to take beautiful pictures. 3. There were fishes in the cistern because it was used to eat insects, prevent insects from laying eggs into the water, and they can also be used to prevent someone from poisoning the city water system. 4. There is a Medusa head inside the Basilica, it is crafted beautifully and with details. It is very cool. 5. Anyway, remember to bring your camera, take more pictures and enjoy :)

Sadly, it was closed due to COVID. We researched a web page and other places prior to our visit, but no where was mentioning it is closed. In fact, hotel guy told, it should be open as well. Be aware that there are a lot of carpet seller waiting for tourist who is coming to Basilica Cistern. They appeared to be very nice telling it is closed, and bringing in to their store.

Very cozy atmosphere with lights shifting colors. Sometimes water would drip from the ceiling, but it was a relaxing experience for sure! Otherwise: Finding information about tickets online was difficult. I remember at this time we paid 350 lira, and for some reason the price is 550 lira after 19 - 19.30. I heard Turkish citizens get cheaper tickets, so maybe it could worth getting a guide to buy the tickets? (Just make sure you go with a fixed price and maybe record your interaction)

Was a nice visit, but 600 TkLira is a bit high and this is the before evening price, in my opinion it’s a bit overpriced for what it is. Buy your tickets before online to avoid waiting.

It's amazing place. Must see location in Istanbul. (BTW> Don't be afraid of the long queue. Even if it looks scary, the crew does their job very effectively and it moves very fast.)

Amazing place to visit, definitely worth it. However it was under renovation when I had gone. So the inside was very dark and the water was drained. Fun fact: there was a scene from the film Inferno(2016) featuring Tom Hanks filmed from inside the basilica.

It's very dark and not as glamorous as I had expected. It was still an interesting experience, but it felt like it wasn't really getting the love it deserved from the powers that be... Idk... It has potential to be something amazing, but it wasn't when I visited. Will go back some time in the future... Maybe.

(Translated by Google) The place is almost mystical, you may not even notice it being nearby. Look opposite, across the street from the church of St. Sofia and if you take a closer look, you will notice a small structure, usually there is a line, this is the entrance. Fantastic place! Fish, large and small, swim between the columns. The atmosphere is mystical. Real underground kingdom! Such a cistern! Reservoir with a soul! (Original) Место почти мистическое, вы можете его и не заметить находясь рядом.Посмотрите напротив, через улицу от храма св.Софии и приглянувшись вы заметите маленнькое строение, обычно там очередь, это и есть вход.Фантастическое место! Рыбы ,большие и маленькие, плавают между коллонн. Фтмосфера мистическая. Настоящее подземное царство!Такая вот цистерна! Водохранилище с душой!

Hi does anyone know if this place is open or not? 19.12.21. Thanks.

Truly a wonderful, magnificent and inspirational place. A place to visit at least once in your life! How did they build this magnificent place underground holding the vital resource that is water? How did they dig such as place with huge numbers of columns to support the needs of the city of Constantinople? It’s truly amazing once you think about these and then imagine that this was built more than a thousand years ago. The place is beautiful, a sight to behold and a true masterpiece.

In a word - WOW. It was amazing to see and be in. You will be moved by the beauty of this popular tourist attraction. Only 190 TL to enter. But do not expect to have it all to yourself. It was extremely crowded with barely enough room to move. In total, a walk through takes roughly 20 minutes. Would love to go again, best time would be right before it closes - chances are you will have a much better experience.

The place is really well maintained. It's a historical piece, with nice details. So why the 4 stars...? I can't tell if this is just for Turkey, but it was really hard and complicated to get online tickets for almost any museum or historical place. Apart from that, the prices are way up high and it's only getting more expensive. If I am not mistaken, we paid 190 lira per person, while there where some "guides" telling you to pay a bit more so you don't have to wait for the line. Don't be afraid of the line though, if it's not near the closing hours, it moves really fast. It's worth the visit though.

We drove several times past the cistern by tram and the queues were endless which at first set us off, but then we decided to there first thing at 9:00 am and bingo we were virtually the first. It was then so good and relaxing to walk around and take time seeing everything without the masses of visitors shoving behind you and being able to take photos. The light shows and resulting reflections are amazing. Certainly worth the visit. Ticket price was 300 TL/person. You can pay by cash or credit card.

It is a very nice place and museum and also has a mini exhibition containing modern art pieces. On a hot day, it is also colder inside so you can refresh for a little bit. Usually there is a line so it takes about an hour to buy the tickets and get it. I highly recommend it.

You can get in without queuing if you buy your tickets online. If you have to queue, we queued for half an hour and bought our tickets at the box office. The ticket at the box office was 270 liras cheaper than online! Conclusion - if the weather is good, it pays to wait in the queue, because there are at least four ticket offices and the queue moves quite fast. We were two people, so we saved a total of 18 euros. There were a lot of tourists inside, but the metal walkway inside is very long, so all the people could fit. It was quite dark inside, but every now and then the pink lighting was switched on, so it's advisable to take photos and videos after those periods of illumination. Anyway, it was a dream of mine to get there, so I'm very happy that I was able to make it happen!

The Basilica Cistern is truly one of Istanbul's marvels, offering a glimpse into the historical prowess of Byzantine engineering. The dimly lit ambiance coupled with the soft echoes of dripping water crafts a mesmerizing atmosphere that transports you back in time. The forest of seemingly endless columns is mystifying, each one with its unique engravings telling tales of the past. The Medusa heads are particularly intriguing, sparking curiosity about the myths and the reasons behind their inverted and sideway positions. The place is well-maintained, with walkways allowing you to navigate comfortably through the cistern, making the exploration enjoyable and accessible. However, the lighting can be a bit sparse in some areas, making it slightly challenging to capture the full detail of the marvelous structures, but this adds to the overall mysterious ambiance of the place. The entrance fee is reasonable, considering the immense historical value and the unique experience it offers. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone keen on discovering the rich tapestry of Istanbul's past.

A magical place! It's difficult to comprehend the effort it took to build this. From the amount of digging by hand that was needed to carrying these gigantic pillars down to lifting them up and in position. And the pillars seem like they were of different height so they also needed to level them. Astonishing! And the way they are lit up adds to the mysterious atmosphere. There were also thousands of people down there when we went and we still felt the crowd only at the entrance. Once inside - it's massive and we were able to take photos and feel like there are only a handful of people. The reason I'm taking a star off is because of the price. 25 euro admission is too high for this place where you have about 30-40 minutes top if you want to wander around and explore. 10-12 euro would be more adequate.

My favourite place of my trip to Istanbul especially for Dan Brown fans. Entry price is very reasonable but best to book in advance as it gets very busy even off season at the weekend. I loved it in here even though it’s a short visit. Worth it to see the Medusa head!

It seems, at first, that there are only columns there. A first why to get in is its primary use - being a cistern - and, then of course, in a scorching day it is a great getaway to cool down and to enjoy an ancient place. Do read please the info you find there😉😉😉

Lots of renovation work taking place. But still a mesmerising, cool and calming place to visit and think of the history and work that has gone into this spectacular 6th century water reservoir system. There are others beneath the city and some still undiscovered. I do recommend reading about it before visiting.

Absolutely enchanting and captivating. It's all underground and submerged slightly in shallow water, which makes for a fascinating visit. The lights are low, moody, and changeable, so it makes for a great photo. You are really captivated by the aura of the place. Tip: Book online as the queues get very large, and you can skip the line. You will also need some photo ID with you.

It’s best to buy the tickets online in advance. There is a separate line for students with no wait if you already purchased your tickets online (33 TL in June 2023), you only need to show the security guard your student card and they’ll let you in directly. Went around 1 PM on a weekday and it was not too crowded. Colors change inside from yellow to green to orange to blue and it’s absolutely stunning. There is a determined path inside that you can follow to see all the statues and monuments. It’s a short path and multiple spots are good for taking pictures.

July 2023: 350 lira if you buy tickets at the gate and 385 if you buy online (35 lira service charge). I would say buying online was worth it to skip the queue, but if you get there at 9am when it opens then you shouldn't wait too long anyway. Interesting to experience the inside. The Medusa heads rightfully attract a lot of attention. Come to think of it, it is actually a bit expensive as you only spend about 30 mins down there. I assume the night show would be nice to see.

Purchase your tickets before you go as the line to buy tickets is very long. No wait time for online QR code tickets. Quite quick to do around 45 minutes. Fair bit to read when you first go in about the history of the cistern but also the waterways that have been built over the years. Lights change colour as you walk through, illuminating various columns & statues! Good value and definitely a place worth a visit!

The Basilica Cistern is a historical site. It was built to store water but today little amount of water is still there for inside access to the people. It's a huge structure which is supported by giant columns. The beauty of the place is undeniable and looks better with different shades of light which mainly falls in these columns. Buying tickets online is a wise move, as the ticket queue can be extensive. However if you have a tour guide then don't worry they will sort it out. There is nothing much interesting to see once you know the purpose of this place and bit of history. You can easily spend 30min walking around which is well laid out around the columns. Note: Don't forget "The two mammoth Medusa heads" used as plinths / base for column in the far corner of the cistern. One Medusa statue sits is on its side while the other is upside down.

The queue to get in was very long. Luckily there were various guides who only sold the tickets at a slightly higher price, so we got in straight away. The pillars were impressive. Between the pillars there were more works of art that were beautiful to look at. Definitely worth a visit!

I visited it on April 2023. I bought the tickets at the entrance after 5 minutes queue. I liked very much reading the history of this building. Inside you walk around the columns looking at work of arts and light games. I appreciated the Medusa head columns. Inside the temperature is cool. At the end of the visit I suggest to buy some high quality souvenirs from the official Istanbul shop.

One of the best value attractions in Istanbul if you pay on entry. October 2023 it cost 450TL. The lighting is excellent, the sculpture creative and the atmosphere takes you back 1500 years. Don't miss the Medusa carvings off in one corner, one on its side, the other upside down, though to be for superstitious reasons. Over 300 giant columns reclaimed from previous Greek and Roman buildings one and a half millenia ago. A must see and great value.

A must see and experience for anyone interested in history of Istanbul. The wait-in-line is worth it, as is the price (450 TL). It is by far a once in a life time experience. There are some annoying tourists posing for selfies, clogging up the views and the passage... So maybe walk around them, or wait until they are finished boosting their self esteem.

Istanbul amazes you with every place you visit. it can be seen that they were a great empire. his remains can be seen all over the city. the cisterns are also part of the city's history and how beautiful they are! you can't miss this place! whether or not you are passionate about art or engineering, this place cannot fail to impress you. the idea of colored lights is welcome, as are art exhibitions and concerts. we entered with a guide through the istanbul tourist pass, we only waited 10 minutes at the entrance. I recommend!

It was an amazing experience for me. The atmosphere of that place was fantastic. There was a music festival in basilica when we were there. Turkish music groups were singing folklore music of Turkish culture and it made our experience to a unique opportunity. Also there are artistic and contemporary sculptures and artworks in this historical basilica, I liked so much. I think it is expensive a little and it can be cheaper for visitors. I I watched a movie which named "inferno" last year and when I was visiting this place I remembered some parts of movie, because it happened in this location. I highly recommend this place and the inferno movie, which is about İstanbul, this basilica and contagious disease.

An absolute treat to visit and easily located right next to many of the main sights. The cistern is fascinating to experience the underground, temple-like pillars and the ambience as water drops from the ceiling. The Medusa heads are at the end of the cistern and are somewhat badly lit but still offer an interesting insight into old superstition. There are informative signs at every significant landmark, so make sure to read them.

O bazilică deosebită, în același timp și puțin uitată. Pentru faptul că nu este moschee, statul nu se implică foarte mult în renovare. Însă este încă foarte frumoasă și foarte rezistibilă. Coloanele plângătoare și capul meduzei sunt și ele foarte interesante. Am reușit să văd și printr-un spațiu mic cum arată bazilica nevizitabilă, încă în reparație. Totodată, se poate observa că locul este umed și încă mai este puțină apă pe jos. Merită a fi văzută.

As a structure it's not very special. But stand awhile and marvel at the ingenuity of the workers who had to build it or even contemplate designing it beneath the city all those hundred of years ago. Then it becomes very impressive. The Ottoman race was highly skilled at huge projects.

If you know Inferno you will like this place and you will understand it. Effectively, I expected a little more from this place but good to visit it once for tourists. A lot of columns with nice lighting. You can take sultan's photo session their. Ticket price is affordable.

I went to the Underground Cistern with a tour guide but didn't really know what to expect. Even if I had no idea what I was looking at, the underground water reservoir is pretty spectacular. It was also cool enough to feel like a sanctuary after walking around under the hot sun. But as we wandered deeper, my tour guide told me about the various pillars, like the one cared with tears, and the Medusa heads. I won't spoil it for you, but you should definitely go and spend time checking out all the columns and learning about the history.

(Translated by Google) Stunning monument of architecture. (Original) Потрясающий памятник архитектуры.

😍😍😍

Tarihi simge hali ve nostaljik atmosferi etkili .

(Translated by Google) You will be amazed by the warm air and its clean effect ✌🏿🕊🔆 (Original) Sıcak bir hava ve temiz etkisiyle hayran kalırsınız ✌🏿🕊🔆

(Translated by Google) A historic place to cool down 😊 One of the magnificent historical buildings of Istanbul is the Basilica Cistern located in the southwest of Hagia Sophia. Built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (527-565), this large underground cistern was named as the "Basilica Palace" because of the marble columns rising out of the water and seemed to be countless. . (Original) Serinlemek için birebir tarihi bir yer 😊 İstanbul'un görkemli tarihsel yapılarından birisi de Ayasofya’nın güneybatısında bulunan Bazilika Sarnıcı’dır. Bizans İmparatoru I. Justinianus (527-565) tarafından yaptırılan bu büyük yeraltı sarnıcı, suyun içinden yükselen ve sayısız gibi görülen mermer sütunlar sebebiyle halk arasında “Yerebatan Sarayı” olarak isimlendirilmiştir.Sarnıcın bulunduğu yerde daha önce bir Bazilika bulunduğundan, Bazilika Sarnıcı olarak da anılır.

It is a good place. A very big saloon under ground. 30 tl for each forign person. You spend 15 min for your visit. Please see it. It is so close to Ayasofia and blue mosque.

The Basilica Cistern, located 150 metres southwest of the Hagia Sophia  was built in the 6th century is a amazing place that you should vizit if you go to Istambul

Basilica Cistern, Turkey🇹🇷 It's the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century. This cathedral-size cistern is an underground chamber approximately 138 metres by 65 metres.⤴️️🏟️😆🚘😊🐺⤴️️🏟️😍🐺🐺

Basilica cistern is the best cistern ever I have seen in Istanbul, it is a very big fish pool also.

There are several old reservoirs in Istanbul, the most famous of which is the Basilica, a remnant of the Byzantine period. This 1500-year-old historical monument from the Byzantine period has an interesting and amazing architecture. The water reservoir in a rectangular shape and 336 columns with a height of 9 meters is the most important feature of this historical monument. These columns are arranged regularly in 12 rows of 28. Of course, this reservoir was not for public use and only provided water for royal buildings in this area. After the conquest of Istanbul, it was used for some time, but the Ottoman kings preferred running water to stagnant water, so they set up water supply facilities and the reservoir was abandoned.

As far as I know this place is under the restorations right now. In general it is interesting. A depo of water under the ground with old columns and Medusa monument

The Basilica Cistern, or Cisterna Basilica, is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern, located 150 metres southwest of the Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula of Sarayburnu, was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Today it is kept with little water, for public access inside the space.

An interesting historical basilica cisten its famous in many movies . The medusa column is one of the highlight of visiting this monument. It very dark inside it and cool on a hot day . Ticket is not very cheap though but the visit is worth the wait of the queue

The place is a nice engineering work. However, it is without a guide or audio explanation, and without additional value it does not worth the money (120 TL). You will just enter, see a 5 minutes video with light effect on the walls and columns, listen at audio effects and music. This can be the same with video online. Unfortunately I feel no additional value was provided. The place has history, people are interested in knowing something. If I would like to be impressed I would've go to magic tricks show. 4 stars to the place itself, 1 star for the added value.

I really enjoyed the history and Medusa Heads, Had to do our own research, so do ahead of time - worth the wait for sure! Watch your step :)

The place is amazing. It calls for contemplation. But the groups of tourists speeding behind their guides are annoying.

A fantastic, one of a kind place. I highly recommend an online in advance purchase to skip the long queues. If possible avoid weekends . The place is recently renovated and looks amazing. However I can’t say the same thing about the outside of the building - it looks too modern and doesn’t fit with the surrounding architecture. The old entrance was much better- I hope they will do something about it.

Absolutely amazing! If you go to Istanbul you must visit Basilica Cistern! It’s located across the street from Hagia Sophia and The Blue mosque which is very good, and the ticket is pretty cheap (>€10). For us it took about 2 hours to go around, you can’t really rush as there is many people and they play with the lights. They turn the place blood red, or pitch black etc from time to time.

Costs 190TL for foreigners to go in. Bought my tickets at the venue after a very long line. Could be scary due to the dim red lights that keep going on and off. But might be a nice experience, depending on what you're into.

Beautiful place ! A must see in Istanbul. I was expecting a lot from this place and still was impressed. I would totally recommend going there and I think this is totally worth the go ! BUT ! Be careful as during the day the queue is humongous !! We came at 8am (it opens at 9am) and we were pretty much first in line which is totally worth the wait in order to be alone or close, down there. I would also recommend buying tickets in advance online !

Beautiful, otherworldly underground space that makes up for its lack of things to do with sheer atmosphere and mysterious aura. The entry is steep at 130 Turkish Lira, for what you get, which is a unique but unvaried walk through the ghostly cistern. A few half-hearted art exhibits adorn the walkthrough but they’re far and few. Overall, it’s worth a visit only if you’re into this kind of stuff and don’t have better things to see. I enjoyed my visit but you have to assess if it’s worth the admission cost for you.

Amazing place! Columns are from all ruined temples so are all different - light effects are great and really light up the at installations. Queues are crazy long but buying the online ticket allows you to skip the queue! Definitely worth the visit.

The basilica cistern are exactly all you could expect. Even though there’s a lot of people it somehow feels intimate and even creepy. I guess we all know this place for Dan Browns movie/film and it’s a really unique place. There’s some still art that’s really unique and the whole hour you could spend there is surreal

This was closed for restoration when I went to Turkey for the first time in 2022 but fortunately, it reopened this year and I got to visit. It was went worth the visit and highly recommended too. As part of the restoration, they have installed a number of art exhibits from local Turkish artists which really add to the whole experience. You follow a pre-laid path that takes you through the entire underground structure with various stops along the way where the history of the cistern is documented. There are drops of water falling from the ceiling, and mood lighting all around that add to the overall mysterious aura of the place making it a unique experience. It’s amazing how beautifully conserved this place is. Tip: the queue for buying tickets on the spot seems long but moves fairly quickly. Tickets are much cheaper on the spot than online. If you have limited time, buying tickets online allows express entry.

Incredible views inside and it’s huge. It opens at 9am and there is still a 30 minute wait. Price at the door is 350 TRY and you can pay by credit card. Online is 385 TRY, I think you can skip the queue. Touts will offer fast track for 450 TRY.

Geschichtlich sehr interessanter Ort, für Besucher toll gemacht mit den Wegen über das Wasser, wechselnden Farben/Lichtern und Skulpturen. Mit Onlineticket kaum Wartezeit. Es gehen auch immer wieder "Führer" an den Wartenden vorbei und bieten private Führungen ohne Wartezeit an, muss aber jeder selbst wissen, ob es einem das Wert ist.

We wanted to explore some tourist places and we found 1 over here from our Istanbul e pass. It is online and online is better as there qas a very long line for tickets. We could only enter there with a guide if you bought online but once she explains everything you can go and be free for as long as u like. There were water dripping and a lot of coins. Very good place I recommend

My visit to the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul was an awe-inspiring journey into the depths of history and architectural marvel. The moment I descended the steps into this underground masterpiece, I was transported to a world that echoed with whispers of the past. The sheer scale of the cistern was breathtaking. The grandeur of the enormous columns, each standing tall and proud, reflected in the still waters below, was a sight to behold. The eerie yet enchanting ambiance added a touch of mystique, as I explored the labyrinthine pathways that crisscrossed this subterranean wonder. The highlight of the Basilica Cistern was undoubtedly the two Medusa heads, nestled amidst the columns. The intrigue surrounding their origin and placement added an element of intrigue to the visit. These iconic relics, with their enigmatic gazes, were an unexpected and captivating sight. The dim lighting within the cistern created an atmosphere that was both mystical and serene. The gentle sounds of dripping water and the occasional echo of footsteps added to the sense of timelessness that enveloped me. The information provided at various points within the cistern was educational and insightful, offering a deeper understanding of its historical significance and architectural intricacies. The preservation efforts were commendable, ensuring that visitors could appreciate this ancient marvel in its near-original form. The Basilica Cistern is a treasure trove of history and culture, a silent witness to the passage of time and the stories it holds. As I walked along the wooden walkways and observed the fish gliding through the waters, I felt a deep connection to the layers of history that lay beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul. In conclusion, the Basilica Cistern is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Istanbul. It's a voyage through time that evokes a sense of wonder and reverence for the craftsmanship and ingenuity of those who built it. This underground masterpiece is a testament to the enduring legacy of the city's rich past and an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

Amazing place to visit if you are a fan of ancient history. It cost 450 lira per person and you can purchase the ticket at the entrance. The queue is normally long during the day. I visited it on Saturday at 1800 and didnt have to queue at all. Inside, it is dark and humid with amazing lighting. There are some arts installation at the time i visited it. Most of the crowd gather around the Medusa head but there is no problem to take picture there. Expect to get some drops of water dripping onto your head

The Basilica Cistern is so cool. It is a magnificent underground structure located in Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern was built in the 6th century during the Byzantine period and was used to store water for the city's inhabitants. Walking through the cistern, you can't help but be amazed by the grandeur of the columns and the peaceful atmosphere. The dimly lit space adds to the mysterious and magical ambiance of the cistern. It truly is a remarkable sight to behold.

Located near the Hagia Sofia, Basilica Cisterna was a deposit of water during Roman reign here. Has around 500 columns, it is nice illuminated, has a modern art exhibition of sculptures, but also has a stone sculpture of Medusa from the Roman times. Some movies were turned here like Inferno with Tom Hanks or From Russia with love with James Bond. I recommend it to visit, maybe with a guide

Awesome place with a mysterious atmosphere. It’s really incredible how something like this was build 1500 years ago and its ability to store 100 thousand liters of water. I would love to see more art pieces there as well, the different color lights were making every piece look interesting and unique. Keep in mind you won’t have any phone connection inside. The whole walk won’t take you longer than half an hour. There’s no bathroom inside as well. If you u get a ticket online you can skip the queue. Don’t miss the Medusas, get are truly amazing. Take some time to take beautiful pictures when the lightings are changing. The water reflection will give you some natural special effects ✨ I honestly liked it, the price of 17€ was not bad, but in my opinion 10 would be sufficient.

Incredible wonderful historical place😍 Our Turkish host has queued and bought tickets for us in advance, so we don't have to queue. Definitely you need to bought online tickets advance. This place is so huge, magnificent and truly worth seeing. Yes, I highly recommend it❣️

I don’t like to visit museums. I got into this place by accident! Just because I needed to wait until the rain is off. And this place is a mix of creepy, historical, ancient vibe. The water is dripping from the ceiling, the atmosphere is dark and scary. But it is sooo interesting . 100% worth visiting.

Beautiful and fascinating , we went at 10.30 on Sunday morning and there was no queue to enter , inside there are modern sculptures mixed with a beautiful atmosphere created by the lights that keep changing. The entrance was 450 TL if you buy the tickets on the spot but there is no audio guide offered , and it was slightly disappointing not to be able to hear the stories behind the cistern. I recommend buy a guided tour online in the early hours where is less crowded. ☺️

The cistern is impressive with its columns and dimensions. All of this is underground. You can visit it at any time of the day - there is lighting, it is open until 10 p.m. The line to the ticket office moves quickly.

Very nice, worth seeing

A beautiful historical museum, its interior has undergone extensive restoration.

Greetings from the Basilica Cistern, where everyone goes and we could only go months ago 📸💫💫 This building, which was built by the Eastern Roman Emperor and has 336 columns, was such a wonderful visual feast that I loved it. However, it was very humid inside. We felt a lot of humidity, normally. It's really worth seeing. We couldn't get enough of watching its ever-changing appearance with the light show. As an important warning, I can emphasize that it is humid inside. After we left, we realized how humid it was. It was great after the restoration, its stance that suddenly changed with the light shows was really great. Since there are many historical buildings to visit in the location of the cistern, you can spend a very productive day. Now I couldn't write them because I was too lazy but okay. #yerebatansarnici @yerebatansarnic This place is open every day of the week for normal visits. Especially after a certain time, I think it was 19.30, they have a separate session with a special light show (Night Shift). That's why its price increases even more. There may also be concerts and shows during this session. If you follow the website, you will have come across a wonderful moment. Did you go? Or are you curious?

There was a long line because we came during peak hours. We found a tour guide outside that offered to skip the line and give us a history lesson for 40 euro. Some may call this a scam but I felt it was well worth the investment to save 1-2 hours in line, learn about the history of the cistern and make a new friend. I recommend guided tours to anyone who wants to learn history and have questions answered accurately.

Obviously an amazing and incredible place, but sadly the renovations meant it was a bit of a building site and no water inside. Just one of those things sadly

look so amazing guys no experience before like that before ??

Awesome place, atmosphere and lighting is very nice a must go when exploring Istanbul!

Lovely historical landmark, definitely worth visiting if in istabul

The underground complex is fantastic and the tickets are very cheap. Queue moves fast. However the place was being renovated, so it did not feel as large as I expected. The total bummer are the info boards. The place is dark but the boards are so bright, you won't see anything if you try to read them.

A must visit! Recall this from the movie Inferno! This is something unique, such a red structure of both religious and infrastructure relevance. Now this is used to host musical concerts, imagine what it would feel like. There’s a small ticket price and a small queue for this place. And yes there’s this Medusa pillar at the end of the hall, which is an intriguing site.

Interesting underground space but nothing much to read or to do inside. Perhaps a bit pricey for what it is.

Beautiful ancient place a must to visit!

Don't go in weekends or in evening, or in rush hours. Better to go in weekdays around 11am to 03pm.

(Translated by Google) Super (Original) Süper

Sollte man besuchen wenn Istanbul im vieler ist

(Translated by Google) Historical place (Original) Tarihi bir yer

İki sene önce yarı fiyatına giriliyor idi. Eski görkemi yok bir kere girildikten sonra yeterli.

Cok etkileyici atmasferi var bu yaz sicaginda icerisi cok serin dikkat edin usumeyin ?

(Translated by Google) Nice historic place (Original) مكان تاريخي جميل

(Translated by Google) Majestic (Original) Majestueux

Giriş ücreti fazla geldi bu yüzden 3 yıldız.

Fara spa. Naspa.

İstanbul'un en çok ziyaret edilen yerlerinden biri. Şu anda içinde su yok. Bir bölümü restorasyon nedeniyle görülemiyor. İçerideki özel bölümleri gözden kaçırmayın ve açıklamaları mutlaka okuyun.

رائع! لايفوتكم!

(Translated by Google) Wonderful (Original) Harika

(Translated by Google) Ecstasy! (Original) Estasi!

Необычный музей, поэтому его нужно посетить. Тем более, что ценник не очень большой. Рекомендуется брать с собой хорошую аппаратуру для съёмки, так как там довольно темно. Ценник для взрослых 30 лир. Бывают очереди на входе.

It's OK and worth a look for the 30tl entrance fee. It was drained for maintenance when we visited but still quite cool

(Translated by Google) Impressive (Original) Beeindruckend

(Translated by Google) good (Original) جيد

(Translated by Google) History (Original) Tarih

if you come in early, it is peaceful and has kinda ambient vibe, but it is like 10 min slow walk and you are done, nothing else to see. and there are only like 3 'did you know?' stands, and there is a photo booth where you can take a photo in sultan costume, kinda ruins the atmosphere

(Translated by Google) It smells so much history (Original) Buram buram tarih kokuyor

so mysterious

Гарно, варто відвідати. Містичне і атмосферне місце.

Cena ulaznice 30tl. Nalazi se 50m od Aja Sofije. Na samom kraju nalazi se glava meduze.

Mutlaka görmeniz tlgereken tarihi yerlerden bi tanesi

Free and beautiful

(Translated by Google) Because it is historical (Original) Tarihi olduğu için

Çok efsane bir yer. Ortam tarih kokuyor resmen

Içeriye girmedim nasil bi yer oldugnu bilmiyorum

Ayasofya Camii Kebirin karşı konumunda yerala sarnıç İstanbul'a geleceklerin görmek istedikleri yerlerin başında yer alıyor. Sultanahmet Camii Ayasofya Camii Topkapi Sarayı gibi tarihi yerlerin yakınında olması buraya olan talebi artırıyor. Bastan sona tarih kokan bir yer.

(Translated by Google) Great place (Original) Harika yer

(Translated by Google) Excellent. (Original) Mükemmel.

An amazing place and a must see when in Istanbul. Would recommend going with a tour guide who will explain the history in detail and of course help take some amazing pics. Great value for money.

(Translated by Google) Was very good (Original) Çok iyiydi

(Translated by Google) Very interesting place, I recommend (Original) Очень интересное место, рекомендую

Wow

Hashmat

Located in Southwest of hagia Sofia, and is magnificent ancient building. It is underground water reservoir called as “Yerebatan Cistern” because of the underground marble columns. The cistern is 140 m long and 70 m wide, rectangular in shape with 52 step staircase and 336 shelter columns each of 9 m. The column are composed of 12 rows and each have 28 columns. The two medusa heads which are used as supports are the real art during the roman period. Wonderful place to visit.

Currently it's without water because of the construction. Fee is 30 tl. Impressive building, unusual place. Good for 1 time visit.

An amazing enchanting place. Istanbul should be on everyone's bucket list

I'm a huge james bond fan, this cistern was used in From Russia with Love, because of that I really wanted to go. Once I stepped foot in I was blown away, this place far surpassed my expectations. The history of this place is incredible. I recommend going here if you can.

Well maintained religious place, big prayer hall separate prayer hall available for women.

This place is closed Now 🥺

Çok güzel bir yer ama eksikleri var.

Sadece turistlerin değil Türklerinde görmesi gereken yer

336 huge columns carved out of stone and two of them have the base carved as medusa head

Gezilesi bir yer muazzam

Fotoğraflarını görüyorum. Muhteşem görünüyor. İnşallah gitmek nasip olur.

На дату 12 января 2021 закрыта (вокруг все перекопано, огорожено забором). На официальном сайте никакой информации не было. Жаль, что не удалось посетить(

(Translated by Google) Century (Original) Jh

(Translated by Google) it's a wonderful place (Original) Muhteşem bir yer

Büyüleyici güzellikte mutlaka herkesin en az bir kez görmesi gereken bir yer

Çok güzel bir yer giriş ücreti 15tl öğrenci lere ve öğretmenlere 5tl içinde balık ve değişik suda canlılar var dilek tuta bileceğiniz bir ters Medusa heykeli var

Very nice old mosque

(Translated by Google) Very interesting and worth seeing! You should definitely have visited !! (Original) Sehr interessant und sehenswert! Sollte man unbedingt besucht haben!!

Is the best history

(Translated by Google) Super (Original) Супер

(Translated by Google) Those who love historical places should definitely visit. (Original) Tarihi yerleri sevenlerin mutlaka ziyaret etmesi gerekir.

(Translated by Google) Historic Center of Istanbul and park area (Original) Исторический Цент Стамбула.и парковая зона

(Translated by Google) Do not return without seeing Medusa, keep an eye on it ☺️ (Original) Medusayi görmeden dönmeyin bir göz göze gelin ☺️

(Translated by Google) We couldn't see (Original) Göremedik ki

(Translated by Google) Very very nice (Original) Sehr sehr schön

(Translated by Google) Amazingly beautiful place. (Original) Потрясающе красивое место.

(Translated by Google) For those who want to see the Past History closely .... The coolest place to take shelter in the hottest days of summer ... (Original) Geçmiş Tarihi yakından görmek isteyenlere.... Yazın en sıcak günlerinde sığınılacak en serin mekan...

(Translated by Google) To visit (Original) A visiter

(Translated by Google) An enormous place is impressive and fascinating. (Original) Muazzam ötesi bir mekan etkileyici büyüleci.

(Translated by Google) Didn't hit, closed for reconstruction! (( (Original) Не попали, закрыт на реконструкцию!((

(Translated by Google) From our historical places that preserve their natural beauty (Original) Doğal güzelliğini koruyan tarihi yerlerimizden

(Translated by Google) It is both an English and a beautiful dated place. 👍🏛🇹🇷 (Original) hem İnginç hem de güzel bir tarihli yer. 👍🏛🇹🇷

It's nice to visit there, a small walk near the Sultanahmet mosque

(Translated by Google) A beautiful and amazing place (Original) مكان جميل ومدهش

Amazing experience!

It was closed

(Translated by Google) Unfortunately, it was closed due to the pandemic. (Original) Pandemiden dolayı kapalıydı malesef.

(Translated by Google) I couldn't see it from inside (Original) لم استطع مشاهدته من الداخل

(Translated by Google) A beautiful place worth visiting! (Original) Красивое место,стоит посетить!

It is fantastic. Even in summer it is cold. I really like to spend time there. There was a cafe. We could drink tea and coffee. It is recommend.

One of the coolest spots and most unusual tourist attractions in Istanbul, Basilica Cistern (Sunken Palace) is an underground water reservoir. The cistern fascinates its visitors with its excellent atmosphere and special historical texture. Walking along the wooden platforms, you will come across various beautiful columns, column heads, and even statues, such as the famous Medusa. They have 336 columns. Basilica Cistern is located in Sultanahmet district near by Hogia Sophia Mosque. The entrance fee is 30 lira. You can visit this beautiful place from 9:00 am till 5:30 pm. Must visit place in Istanbul.

If you can try to get there just after opening you might enjoy a bit more space to roam as the place was packed when we went in the early afternoon. Quite impressive but difficult to get good photos due to the volume of people inside.

Nice place. Maybe during the night it would be better to admire the buildings

Make sure your camera has a night mode or flash because it is dark up in this joint. 30 TL is a bit much for what you get but if you've never seen an underground cistern, you can check this off your bucket list. The Theodosius Cistern isn't far away and is actually lit (literally).

(Translated by Google) Date Date (Original) Tarih tarih

Increíble la cisterna de Estambul, un lugar difícil de explicar: oscuro, con una inmesidad de columnas, las cabezas de Medusa. Para mí es de las visitas imprescindibles de la ciudad, además es fácil llegar ya que se encuentra cerca de Santa Sofia

Tarihi yer beğendim ücretli olması iyi degil

Grotto

(Translated by Google) Nice (Original) جميل

(Translated by Google) Worth a visit (Original) يستحق الزيارة

(Translated by Google) Very pretty (Original) Muy bonito

İstanbul'a her geldiğimde mutlaka ziyaret ettiğim ve beni her seferinde ilk kez görüyormusum gibi büyüleyen ve heyecanlandıran mekandır Yerebatan Sarnıcı. Mutlaka burayı ziyaret edin ve ışıgın sudaki yansımaları ve sarnıcın güzelligi bırakın sizi bambaşka bir dünyaya alıp götürsün.

(Translated by Google) Unfortunately, Now under restoration, failed to visit ( (Original) К сожалению, Сейчас на реставрации, посетить не удалось(

(Translated by Google) Hilton Hotel (Original) Hilton Hotel

(Translated by Google) It was 3 more months than what I learned now in restoration (Original) Şu an restorasyonda öğrendiğime göre 3 ay daha öyleymiş

(Translated by Google) I wished to enter, and unfortunately closed due to Corona It is said to be very beautiful (Original) تمنيت الدخول ، وللأسف مغلق بسبب كورونا يقال انه جميل جداً

It's closed I'm guessing pandemic social distancing procedure 🥺 i hope I'm able to visit it before i leave

Out of this world

(Translated by Google) I think it is one of the places that should be visited in Istanbul. It has a great atmosphere. It was used as a water tank in Ottoman times. Today, it is a place that is visited by more tourists. (Original) İstanbulda gezilmesi gereken yerlerden biri oldugunu dusunuyorum.Harika bir atmosferi var.Osmanli zamaninda su deposu olarak kullanilirmis.Gunumuzde ise daha cok tursitlerin ziyaret ettigi bir yerdir.Ayasofyanin hemen karsisinda bulunuyor

(Translated by Google) Impressions for life. (Original) Впечатления на всю жизнь.

(Translated by Google) Basilica Basilica, Basin of the Cathedral, or Submerged Palace (Turkish: Yerebatan Sarnıcı; English: Basilica Cistern) is the largest of the hundreds of ancient cisterns located under Istanbul (formerly Constantinople), Turkey. It was built in the sixth century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It is located 150 m to the southwest of Hagia Sophia, and has an area of ​​9,800 square meters. [2] This subterranean structure derives its name from a large public square that was located on the first plateau in Constantinople, which is the Basilica of Stoa, which was originally built underground before it was completed. Turn it into a tank. It was built between the third and fourth centuries during the early Roman era as a commercial, legal and artistic center. It was rebuilt after a fire broke out in 476. Ancient texts indicated that the basilica contained gardens, columns surrounded it, and was directed towards Hagia Sophia. [2] According to ancient historians, the Emperor Constantine built the Temple, which was later rebuilt and expanded by Emperor Justinian after the Nika riots of 532, which destroyed the city. [2] This ground cistern housed a water purification system for the Great Palace in Constantinople and other buildings on the First Hill. It continued to supply water to Topkapi Palace after the Ottoman period in 1453 until the modern era. [3] (Original) البزايليك الأرضي أو حوض الكاتدرائية أو القصر المغمور (بالتركية: Yerebatan Sarnıcı ؛ بالإنجليزية: Basilica Cistern) هو الخزان الأرضي الأكبر من بين مئات الصهاريج القديمة التي تقع تحت مدينة إسطنبول (القسطنطينية سابقا)، تركيا. تم بناؤه في القرن السادس في عهد الإمبراطور البيزنطي جستنيان الأول. يقع على بعد 150 م إلى الجنوب الغربي من آيا صوفيا، وتبلغ مساحته 9.800 متر مربع.[2]استمد هذا الهيكل الجوفي إسمه من ساحة عامة كبيرة كانت تقع في الهضبة الأولى في القسطنطينية، وهي بازيليكا ستوا، التي شيدت تحت الأرض بالأصل قبل أن يتم تحويلها إلى خزان. وقد بنيت بين القرنين الثالث والرابع خلال العصر الروماني المبكر كمركز تجاري وقانوني وفني. وقد أعيد بناؤها بعد اندلاع حريق في 476. وقد أشارت النصوص القديمة إلى أن البازيليكا قد احتوت على الحدائق، وكانت الأعمدة تحيط بها، كما كانت موجهة نحو آيا صوفيا.[2] ووفقا للمؤرخين القدماء، فقد بنى الإمبراطور قسطنطين الهيكل الذي أعيد بناؤه في وقت لاحق وتم توسيعه من قبل الإمبراطور جستنيان بعد أعمال شغب نيكا من 532، التي دمرت المدينة.[2] كان الخزان الأرضي هذا يحوي نظام تنقية للمياه للقصر الكبير في القسطنطينية وغيره من المباني الأخرى الواقعة على التلة الأولى. واستمر في توفير المياه لقصر توبكابي بعد العهد العثماني عام 1453 وحتى العصر الحديث.[3]

(Translated by Google) I do not have enough intellectual knowledge to comment on the Basilica Cistern, unfortunately, google. I just say great. (Original) Yerebatan sarnıcına yorum yapacak düzeyde entellektüel birikimim yok maalesef google. Sadece harika der geçerim.

(Translated by Google) Super (Original) Süper

(Translated by Google) Nice (Original) جميل

(Translated by Google) Definitely a place to go .. The road to walk and the fish passing below are excellent .. (Original) Kesinlikle gidilmesi gereken bir yer..heleki yurunen yol ve alttan gecen baliklar mukemmel..

Great Great Great place

(Translated by Google) Closed at the time of 17.02.21 due to the pandemic (Original) На момент 17.02.21 закрыто в связи с пандемией

(Translated by Google) I was gone when I was very, very young. I stopped by a week ago. Restoration area. I will go as soon as the restoration is over, inshllh 😊 (Original) Çok çok küçükken gitmiştim. Bi hafta önce uğradım. Restorasyon a alınmış. Restorasyon biter bitmez gideceğim inşllh 😊

(Translated by Google) A very exotic and historical place that must be seen ... (Original) Mutlaka görülmesi gereken çok egzotik ve tarihi bir mekan...

(Translated by Google) It does not work, and according to local people it will be closed for reconstruction for another three months (Original) Не работает, и по словам местных ещё три месяца будет закрыт на реконструкцию

Nice place. Mysterious situation. This place have one column for wishes.

(Translated by Google) History inside the city (Original) Şehrin içinde tarih

Unfortunately it's close due TO COVID-19

(Translated by Google) Just wow (Original) Just woww

(Translated by Google) Awesome. Very atmospheric. (Original) Обалденно. Очень атмосферно.

(Translated by Google) 02/11/21 was closed for reconstruction. Didn't hit. Nearby, 300 meters away, two mosques Aya Safiya and Blue (Original) 11.02.21 было закрыта на реконструкцию. Не попали. Рядом в 300 метрах две мечети Ая Сафия и Голубая

(Translated by Google) place to visit (Original) gezilip görüşülecek yer

(Translated by Google) Good thumbs (Original) Good palce

how many times in a life can we have a chance to step in the heart of history ?! Worth visiting and highly recommended

(Translated by Google) We liked it very much (Original) Çok beğendik

(Translated by Google) Absolutely worth seeing (Original) Absolut sehenswert

Impressive construction, architecture of centuries ago. It is worth visiting but one needs to have enough patience because the queue is very long

I been here twice and it's always fun.Thie place make u feel Magic and Amazing.

The Basilica Cistern is one of the greatest historical wonders of Istanbul. Built as water source for the city it has survived intact for nearly two millenia. While the great cistern was fed by an aqueduct from the mountains to the west it is in fact located on one of the highest points of the old city. The placement of the cistern enabled water to flow downhill and serve the city and port along the Golden Horn. The cistern is a remarkable example of Roman design and engineering. Materials used in the construction of the columns supporting the roof came from all corners of the Roman Empire. You will see stone that was taken from other buildings and monuments that pre-date Rome, stones that bear the inscriptions of Greek gods carved long before the common era. The use of stone from ancient monuments was common, some of the stones at the base of columns was scavenged from great structures that were lost to history. Truly one of the places to experience while visiting Istanbul.

It was an enjoyable experience getting down there

Of ancient Roman Greco history, a cistern or relatively inspiring sight. It is nothing ornate or spectacular as much as historically important and worth a stop in. We had a tour here, and the quiet and stone and history of us was enchanting enough.

Great place to visit and historic all time destinations. Very calm, Quite place and ambient place.

Beautiful, accessible, providing nice cool respite during the hot summer days. It is a must.

The place is beautiful and you feel the history, however you pay too much for a short (good) light show. I'll put 5 stars if the price was way cheaper

After a long time I find opportunity to visit the Basilica. It was under restoration for a long time and hopefully it's open now.

Huge waste of time and money (tickets are 190 TL per person). Beware of the scammers outside who charge exorbitant prices claiming to be guides. Located right next to the Hagia Sophia, there was a long queue to enter, so we thought it would be worth visiting. It was basically a large, ancient cistern with sculptures that had been recently placed. There were lights changing colours, which added to the “mystery” that perhaps the authorities were trying to create. However, the crowd inside completely detracted from the experience.

This was probably our favorite thing we went to in Istanbul. It is really interesting, beautiful and has an educational aspect. Not only can you learn about the purpose of the basilica but there are also many artworks that discuss climate change. We were so glad this reopened, such an awesome place! Don’t miss out!

Amazing eye opening place. Well maintained however the lightning is low. The ticket price is fine however there should've been more staff assisting tourists, i lost my cap there and knew no one to ask for.

One of the most beautiful location to visit in Istanbul. It has just restorated and that was amazing to see.

Frankly a bit overestimated, but this nice Columns forest and colorful led show is well worth the long queue for visiting. There is also an upside down bas-relief picturing the face of the medusa that here seems the world discovery. Everything was savaged from old temples and ruins and is a bit covered by calcium carbonate due to long water immersion. The migthy led illumination creates a very intriguing and unique scenery nice for child and playstation lovers. Along the walk sometimes some obscure-meaning modern scultuptures help to reduce the boring repetition of columns. From time to time on the right far end there is a music and picture show about the birth of the medusa. When it's time Best is to run there and be on the first row to enjoy it otherwise if you can't see nothing. Price is quite costy ( 190TL/person) but at the end the multimedia show make everyone happy.

It was 190 TL to visit and you could wait in line to buy the tickets at the door. the line was around the corner, but it took less than ten minutes and was steadily moving . Entrance is half the price that you'll find online that involves tour guides. To be honest it's so busy, loud and crowded, I would imagine having a tour guide would be frustrating. The cisterns are absolutely stunning and have just been renovated (I believe it opened up June 2022 after being closed for 2 years). There's some modern art pieces in the water that look pretty cool. But you also get a sense that they are now catering to the social media/selfie type. This can be super annoying as the lights change constantly, even black out about every 5 minutes. You also have to weave your way around all the social media types.

Amazing place, feels like traveling back in time! Definitely worth a visit. Also, every 1 hour there’s a projection (they don’t tell you this when you enter).

Wow, wow, wow! I absolutely loved the Basilica Cistern. It is a lot bigger than photos can show, and though it is simply an underground cistern, it still feels amazing to walk through. It is so beautiful, the textures of all the columns, the ceiling, and the water underneath your feet. Water even drips down from the ceiling, so it feels really authentic. They placed some sculptures inside, to give you more to look at. They change the lights from white/orange/green/mix/and even turn off the lights occasionally. Overall this feels more like a unique art museum, but I love it. I wish I could visit multiple times, as it was one of the top 5 favorite things I did in Istanbul. I definitely recommend visiting, but go in the morning on a weekday to avoid queues/tour groups!

I would consider this along with the other must see places in Istanbul! It's only $10 for the entrance fee, and well worth the short trip. The line can be long on some days, so go early. They have an interesting light show inside that makes for some very lovely pictures.

Well worth your time. A unique historical landmark. For this day and age I would provide a recorded audio guide. For a cost. Speaking of cost: we bought tickets in advance but the wait for the guide was almost equivalent to the wait in line. Almost. The guide gave us a small and cute historical intro then left us to roam "freely" , which I appreciated.

Amazing historical place, the biggest underground cistern in the world. the lighting is so good it fits the atmosphere, you can buy a ticket online and skip the waiting line, they also have a student discount. The trip was very informative I went there twice. MAKE SURE TO WATCH MEDUZA

A very cool historical relic that goes back to when Istanbul was ruled by the Romans. This was used to store water as the city doesn’t have a natural source of water. The cistern also holds art exhibits which are placed in the water with light illumination. The queue is quite long, there is an option to buy online as well, some locals may approach you to see if you want a private tour while in line- this is usually more expensive than the official museum admission fee

A wonderful place to visit. Beautiful and amazing design. Also a very cool place to spend an hour or so when it’s hot outside. We definitely skipped the line by using a local guide but be sure to ask questions up front so you don’t pay too much extra - we paid our guide the same amount as the ticket price which we thought was a fair deal - worth skipping the queue for sure.

The fact that people had the idea to make these thousands of years ago is insane. The Basilica Cistern is one of the biggest cisterns in Istanbul. The inside is well preserved and they do not keep too much water in here anymore. The lighting inside is absolutely perfect, you feel the darkness of being underground but can see everything very well. Definitely something everyone should see when they visit Istanbul. Also I booked in advance which helped.

Amazing experience! I'm so happy we were able to visit the Basilica without a huge line. Buy your tickets in advance. We used a local guide, and it helped with the overall experience. It's not necessary, but you can negotiate with them since they are standing outside the ticket lines. Don't rush yourself inside even though there's too many people walking around inside. It's a little difficult to take pictures, but you can be patient to get some good shots. Highly recommended coming here if you are in the historical area of Istanbul.

The Basilica Cistern is a magic attraction that has been fully renovated and located in the same area as other Istanbul’s touristic stars therefore better to arrive before 09.00 in the morning to enter as one of the first among numerous visitors. In such case no need pay online an overpriced ticket but just 350 TRY at entrance desk. Lighting & exhibiting contemporaneous art complete the experience. The two medusa heads at the bottom of the pillars remain fabulous attractions. Even you are not alone visiting, the place is wide enough to make you enjoy some privacy. Queuing below the sun with herds of tourists before to enter is definitely a tough moment. Up to you to find a proper time.

Very beautiful place. The lighting makes the place more mysterious. Not sure about all the sculptures though. The place would probably be prettier if less tourists. But I guess many people come for its beauty. There are private tourist guides at the entrance that you can pay to get in quicker.

Wonderful place! A must visit! Follow me on Instagram for more enchanting travel experiences @ecuadoriantravelista 🌍✨

Expensive and who had the bright idea of building the queue in the direct istanbul sun with no shelter. Horrendous.

Good for a walk and relax. Cool inside. Little bit expensive though

Nous avons payé des tickets à des personnes extérieures en faisant la file, un rien plus chère mais ça nous a permis de passer devant tout le monde et d' éviter l'attente, je trouve le prix un peu cher pour ce que c'est.. la visite va très vite !

Супер впечатления. Советую посетить.

Очень красивое место

Unglaublich beeindruckend

A great historical place. Previously it was used as a water reservoir in ancient times when this city was called 'Constantinople'. It is placed right beside the Hagia Sophia, now mosque, then a basilica. Now it has several architectural idols and the column with Medusa head. The experience was too good. Buying a ticket in advance is very necessary as there was a huge queue at the ticket counter. We got our tickets beforehand.

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, and it exceeded all my expectations. Stepping into this underground wonder felt like stepping back in time to the glory days of the Byzantine Empire. The sheer size and architectural marvel of the Basilica Cistern left me speechless. The dimly lit ambiance, coupled with the impressive rows of ancient columns, created an otherworldly atmosphere that added to the sense of mystery and grandeur. The historical significance of this underground reservoir is fascinating. To think that this cistern once served as a vital water supply for the city, and now stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the past, is truly humbling. One of the highlights of my visit was gazing upon the two famous Medusa heads. These mysterious relics, used as column bases, ignited my curiosity about the legends and stories surrounding them. The knowledgeable guides provided valuable insights into the history and legends associated with the cistern, making the experience even more enriching. Despite its popularity, the Basilica Cistern managed to maintain a serene and tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in the historical ambiance. The walkways were well-maintained, and the soft background music further enhanced the overall experience. Visiting the Basilica Cistern is an absolute must for anyone exploring Istanbul. It's a place that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and culture, making it a true gem in the heart of the city. I would highly recommend allocating ample time to explore this mesmerizing attraction thoroughly. In conclusion, the Basilica Cistern stands as a remarkable historical marvel that left me with lasting memories. Its grandeur, captivating history, and peaceful setting make it a must-visit destination for travelers from all walks of life. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a unique and enriching experience, the Basilica Cistern won't disappoint

This place is so beautiful and worth checking it. The way they use the different light, the reflections in the water and the over design of the place was amazing. Would definitely recommend checking it out, though try to come during less busy hours and you will thank yourself that you did.

It's actually nothing much to tour around here, you just walk around a cistern with unrelated statues/art pieces placed around and with different lighting effects. It's great if you like to take nice photos and not so much if you want some historical stuff. There's always a long queue so buy the skip the line.

If you're going 100% book your tickets online. We got there early and the line was huge. They have a seperate line for online ticket sales which was empty...we sat around the corner and bought our tickets on the phone. Once confirmed walked past everyone in the queue. I would just say if you're going, book online. Same price and if there is a line the online line is always going to be smaller. Was a highlight for me and my wife. I would recommend coming through especially on a hot day, has some art in between all the pillars wish is also quite nice. This was built about 1800 years ago and has been restored several times was the main source.of water for many way back when. Pretty interesting to see There are lights in there that change colour from time to time and make it quite beautiful to walk around.

This is worth seeing, amazing place. One frustration however is that there is no light on any of the written information and signs so it is very hard to read them. Other than that, an interesting part of Istanbul’s history and they have added some sculpture and art works as well.

Ancient underground structure made to collect and preserve rain water. Maybe, good to visit depending on you life experience. Personally was not impressed, but maybe it is just me. Good steady tourist line. Waiting time about 20 min. Ticket around 12 euro, option to buy online ticket 2x price with line skip. In my opinion not worth it, unless money is not an object.

This place is a nice little museum for underwater history however being a group of teenagers we weren’t really for it so I’d definitely recommend it if it was something you cared for but it was still nice with the lights and the art around the place. It is £15 per person and we spent around 20 minutes in it so I’d just say if you’re into this kind of stuff this would definitely be your cup of tea

Stunning with its history, huge queues and needs better interpretation and queue management. But overall a must do experience Get the skip the line , it is busy and long queues - might be a good idea to do this early to beat queues. There’s some interpretation and reading inside which is useful. Amazing to see it in such good condition

Exceptional experience that is full of historical value. It is a true marvel to think that civilizations from many years ago were able to build such vast underground water storage network. This site is also an exciting fusion of past and present as the historical cistern is full of modern sculptures that reflect the identity of a young and fresh Turkiye. However, please be aware that the queues to undergo security checks and enter can be very long and that it is quite slippery inside due to minimal railings. I would not advise very young, elderly, or disabled people to visit this attraction.

One of the top spots I visited while in Istanbul. The cistern is an amazing achievement to see and is fascinating. They change the lighting a few times so it’s very interesting to see how that changes the look inside. There is also fantastic artwork spread throughout the basilica which captivated my attention and it was a perfect match. Highly recommended and I spent over 1 1/2 hours inside marveling at everything.

It has a cool vibe but unfortunately it's quite crowded which makes it hard to really take in the atmosphere. For 16€/450TL only worth it if you don't have much else to do. No signs explaining anything about the history, how it works,... I had to google it afterwards. Also, make sure to buy a ticket online at the official website and don't let yourself be tricked by some of the "official" tour guides trying to sell you a ticket.

The Basilica Cistern was amazing. The architecture was breathtaking. Like nothing I've ever seen before. Definitely a bucket list experience. The history of it all leaves you speechless and completely in awe. Would definitely recommend a trip here.

Almost as humid as it is stunning. Tickets are required. Not much parking close by. Ancient 5th century cistern to capture water for the city. This was a common practice from Roman times. Very large with excellent walkways. Great photo ops! Have fun!

A 1,500 year old solution to supply water to the people of Istanbul is amazing to see. Get there before 9am to avoid the queues, you will only be in there for around fifteen to twenty minutes, so you don't want to waste all your time queuing. The water level inside is kept low so that people don't drown, but when it was in use, it used to hold 80,000,000 litres. As you go down the stairs, you get to a walk level where you can see the vast area that once used to be filled with water. There is little information inside, you have to use your imagination. However, well worth a visit.

Don't be scared when you see the 300m line, it actually moves very fast! I don't think it is necessary to pay the 10€ extra for the fast track as we waited 15 minutes to get in which is okay. It's pretty nice down there although I wish there were more information signs, there were only like 2 at the entrance and were quite hard to read. Also don't go on heels, very bad choice.

Great place to visit, very unusual. Queues can be very long so I highly recommend you to buy tickets online so that you don't have to wait in the queue. Interesting place, lovely light changes and an art exhibition when we were there too. We spent about an hour.

I have been here 20 years ago and of course this place hasn’t changed, the surrounding they sure did. Ticket line goes pretty fast even tho is full of tourists. Ticket costs 14 euros and can only be purchased for the day you are entering. One thing that changed from the time I went is the temperature inside the cistern, more than twenty years ago was still humid as it is today but way colder inside. Maybe the temperature inside changes with the weather and season, almost sure of that but also the affluence of people entering the place must have an impact.

Mysterious place where you should definitely go especially if you watched Inferno movie. I brought my friends from Kazakhstan. Before it was just cistern for gathering drinking water, now more like a museum. You can see also some sculptures from modern artists that match with the style. And one of the most interesting columns is those with the head of Medusa. Actually there are two columns, go and see by yourself 😉

Amazing! At the top of my list of places to go to in Istanbul. I love the artwork in the water, the history, the general vibe. Absolutely beautiful. Tip: Better come in the evening, the line to enter is shorter.

One of the highlights of the historical Istanbul. It leaves you speechless as soon as you walk down the stairs. The place feels surreal! If you have a particular interest in Roman history and architecture I can't recommend it enough! The cistern is incredibly humid, be ready to sweat! Buy the tickets online in advance, we managed to skip the whole queue and were inside in seconds.

I am amazed how this incredible water storage and distribution system that was built many many centuries ago is able to withstand the test of time and modernisation. Although no longer functional now, its design and architecture of the long past era, is stunning to me. The column with Medusa’s head as the base attracted much attention, cos’ we had always thought that Medusa was a myth. Don’t miss the chance to visit this incredibly interesting place whenever in Istanbul. Ticket price is affordable, and can be purchased online.

I wasn't able to visit this place on my first visit to Istanbul but I was able to on my second visit. It is better to have a guide with you since he will get you the tickets and you can skip the wait and the line. The place is so beautiful. It is like an art exhibition. It has lots of stories about it and a guide can tell you all the history behind it. If you are in Istanbul, this place is a must visit.

Recommend buying no wait tickets. And tip your guide. It is greatly appreciated. They do a wonderful job and have to go through quite a training program to attain the position. Absolute must see along with the Old City, the Blue Mosque and the sheer amazing history of the region. I don't have the qualifications to tell you why to see this place. But if you are in Istanbul, it must be seen, you can't just see it you have to feel it. And watch your footing. If you do not pay attention you will eat it. And it will hurt. This is not America you can't sue everyone. In the US, this tour would have been four times the amount of money. And much safer. A trade-off I guess.

Is a wonderful architectural marvel of a great extension and majestic for the dimensions of its interior. Typical place full of tourism with a lot of history unfortunately does not have interesting guided tours. It seems to me a must for the typical but I was surprised by the amount of people who visit it and that it does not have much more to offer.

Buy your tickets online because that is much cheaper. It is dark, warm and damp but the light show makes it very much worthwhile. It is quite an amazing sight and even though it is not big it is certainly worth visiting.

Unique place to visit in Istanbul. Expensive entry but worthwhile! There were no long queues for on at 9am in January 2024. Queues can build up. Price per person for tourists was 600 TL. It is adjacent to Ayasofia mosque.

One of the most impressive destination for both foreigners and local tourists, in the heart of the İstanbul. Lights are changing as a game in there and you need to wait to see every tiny detail!! Highly recommended