Unraveling the Basilica Cistern's Secrets
The Mysteries of the Basilica Cistern
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The placement of the two Medusa heads in the cistern has been a subject of much speculation and debate. Some believe that they were placed there for protection against evil spirits, while others think that they may have been intended as a tribute to the goddess Medusa. Still others speculate that they may have been placed there simply for decoration, or to serve as supports for the columns.
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Despite the fact that the cistern was built to provide a reliable water supply to the city, the exact source of the water remains unknown. Some believe that it came from the Belgrade Forest, located 19 kilometers north of Istanbul, while others speculate that it was sourced from the hills near the Sea of Marmara.
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There are rumors that there are hidden chambers within the cistern, which have never been explored. Some believe that these chambers may contain valuable artifacts or treasures, while others speculate that they may have served as secret meeting places for the Byzantine elite.
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The 336 columns that support the cistern are all different, with varying designs and sizes. Some believe that each column may represent a different tribe or nation that was part of the Byzantine Empire, while others think that they may symbolize the diversity of the empire itself.
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History Of Basilica Cistern
- The Basilica Cistern was constructed in the 6th century during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.
- It was built to provide water to the city of Istanbul, which was then known as Constantinople.
- The cistern covers an area of approximately 9,800 square meters and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water.
- It is supported by 336 columns, most of which were salvaged from ruined buildings and are thought to have been brought from various parts of the Roman Empire.
- The cistern was forgotten for centuries and was rediscovered by chance in the 16th century when a Dutch traveler noticed locals retrieving water from a hole in their basement floor.
- During the Ottoman Empire, the cistern was used as a water storage facility for the Topkapi Palace and other buildings in the area.
- In 1985, the cistern was opened to the public as a tourist attraction and today it remains one of the most popular sights in Istanbul.
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Know Before You Go To Basilica Cistern
- The Basilica Cistern was built during the 6th century under the rule of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, and is considered one of the largest ancient underground water reservoirs in Istanbul.
- The cistern has a rectangular shape, measuring 140 meters by 70 meters, with a total area of 9,800 square meters. It has a depth of approximately 8 meters and can hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water.
- The cistern is supported by 336 columns, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each. The columns are made of various materials, including marble and granite, and are believed to have been taken from earlier structures and reused in the cistern.
- The columns are topped with ornate capitals, which vary in design and include examples of Ionic, Corinthian, and Doric styles. Some of the capitals are believed to have been recycled from older structures.
- The cistern is covered by a vaulted brick roof, which is supported by columns and arches. The roof is pierced by numerous openings, known as an oculus, which allow light to filter into the cistern.
- The cistern is accessed by two staircases, located at opposite ends of the reservoir. Visitors descend a staircase to enter the cistern and walk on a raised walkway to explore the columns and the water below.
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- It served as a crucial water reservoir during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, providing water to the Great Palace and other parts of the city.
- The cistern has been a site of cultural events such as concerts, exhibitions, and film screenings, drawing visitors from around the world.
- It has also been a source of inspiration for artists and writers, such as Orhan Pamuk, who wrote about the cistern in his novel "My Name is Red".
- The cistern was featured in the opening scene of the James Bond movie "From Russia With Love".
- Its unique atmosphere has also made it a popular location for photoshoots and wedding ceremonies.
- The cistern is also considered a symbol of Istanbul's rich cultural heritage, as it combines elements of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture in a unique and unforgettable way.
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FAQs For Mysteries of Basilica Cistern
Why are there Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern?
The exact reason why the Medusa heads were placed in the cistern is unknown. Some theories suggest that they were placed there to ward off evil spirits, while others suggest that they were intended as a tribute to the goddess Medusa.
How deep is the Basilica Cistern?
The cistern is approximately 9 meters deep (30 feet), and can hold up to 100,000 tons of water.
Can visitors explore the Basilica Cistern?
Yes, the cistern is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk along a wooden platform that has been built over the water, allowing them to see the columns and the Medusa heads up close.
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Are there any hidden chambers in the Basilica Cistern?
There are rumors of hidden chambers within the cistern that have never been explored, but there is no concrete evidence to support these claims.
What is the cultural significance of the Basilica Cistern?
The cistern has been a crucial source of water for Istanbul for many centuries, and has also been used for cultural events such as concerts and exhibitions. It has also been a source of inspiration for artists and writers, and is considered a symbol of Istanbul's rich cultural heritage.
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