Basilica Cistern

One of the most famous historical architecture in Istanbul is the Basilica Cistern. It was built during the reign of the Byzantine Empire Justinian I (527-565), as a cistern. Formerly there was a basilica located at the same place, so that the Cistern is called Basilica Cistern. Besides local people call it as “Yerebatan Sarayı”, which means Sunken Palace, since it is like a palace beneath the city.

It is the most romantic attraction beneath the beautiful city, Istanbul. When you enter the cistern, you feel like you are dreaming. It is cool, relaxing and charming. You may visit the cistern after visiting Hagia Sophia, since they are the monuments of Byzantium which are in the Sultanahmet Square. The cistern is located 150 m southwest of the Hagia Sophia.