The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage system located in Istanbul, Turkey. It was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
The Basilica Cistern covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters (105,000 square feet) and has a capacity of 80,000 cubic meters (2,800,000 cubic feet) of water.
The cistern was built using columns and arches salvaged from other structures, including pagan temples and public buildings. It was constructed using a mixture of brick and stone, with a waterproofing layer of plaster on the walls and floor.
As of 2021, the admission fee for the Basilica Cistern is 50 Turkish lira (approximately $5.50 USD) for adults.
As of 2021, the Basilica Cistern is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Unfortunately, the Basilica Cistern is not fully accessible for people with disabilities due to the steep staircase leading down to the entrance. However, there is a wheelchair lift available upon request.
Yes, Turkey has several lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the archaeological site of Aphrodisias, the Hittite capital of Hattusa, and the Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük, each offering unique historical and cultural experiences.