Discover the magnificent Byzantine water reservoirs beneath the city
Istanbul's ancient cisterns are among the most impressive remnants of Byzantine engineering. Built between the 4th and 6th centuries CE, these massive underground chambers stored water for the growing population of Constantinople. Today, they stand as testament to the ingenuity and ambition of Byzantine architects.
Largest Byzantine Cistern
Yerebatan Sarnıcı
The most famous and largest surviving Byzantine cistern. Features 336 marble columns and the mysterious upside-down Medusa heads.
Modern Multimedia Experience
Şerefiye Sarnıcı
Recently restored with state-of-the-art lighting and multimedia displays. Offers a unique blend of ancient architecture and modern technology.
Thousand and One Columns
Binbirdirek Sarnıcı
Known as the "Thousand and One Columns" cistern. One of the oldest cisterns, offering a quieter, more contemplative experience.
When Constantinople became the capital of the Roman Empire in 330 CE, Emperor Constantine faced a critical challenge: providing reliable water to a growing city located on a peninsula. The solution was an ambitious network of aqueducts and underground cisterns.
These massive underground chambers collected rainwater and stored water transported from distant sources up to 20 kilometers away. During sieges, when enemies might cut off the city's water supply, these cisterns meant the difference between survival and surrender.
Byzantine engineers created these vast underground spaces using sophisticated architectural techniques. Hundreds of columns, often recycled from earlier Greek and Roman buildings, supported brick vaults that could withstand enormous water pressure.
The cisterns maintained a constant cool temperature year-round and could store millions of liters of water. Some, like the Basilica Cistern, were so large they could supply entire neighborhoods for months.
Water capacity of the Basilica Cistern alone
Ancient cisterns discovered under Istanbul
"From Russia with Love" filmed in Basilica Cistern
Fish still swim in some cisterns today
We recommend visiting all three major cisterns to experience the full range of Byzantine water engineering. Each cistern offers a unique atmosphere and architectural features.
45 min - 1 hour per cistern
Available for multiple cisterns
All in Sultanahmet area