Fatih, Turkey
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3
N/A
+90 2125121570
Good for kids
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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).
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