Discover the hidden Byzantine water chambers across the city
While the Basilica Cistern, Theodosius Cistern, and Cistern of Philoxenos are the most famous and accessible, Istanbul is home to over 100 discovered cisterns dating from the Byzantine era. Many remain closed to the public, some are still being excavated, and others have been lost to time.
These remarkable structures reveal the sophisticated water management system that kept Constantinople thriving for over a millennium.
Cisterna Crypta
A small but beautiful cistern near the Hippodrome. Features 16 columns and well-preserved brickwork. Currently used for cultural events.
Location: Sultanahmet
Status: Open to visitors
Open-Air Cistern
The largest open-air cistern in Constantinople, built in 421 CE. Now a public park (Çukurbostan). Once held 80,000 cubic meters of water.
Location: Fatih
Status: Converted to park
Built 459 CE
Another massive open-air cistern, measuring 152m × 85m. Built by Flavius Ardabur Aspar. Now a sports field in a residential area.
Location: Fatih
Status: Converted to sports area
Built 491-518 CE
One of the largest cisterns, with capacity for 40,000 cubic meters. Named after the nearby Church of St. Mocius. Partially preserved.
Location: Aksaray
Status: Archaeological site
5th-6th century
Also known as the Altımermer (Six Marbles) Cistern. Features massive marble columns. Located beneath houses in Fatih district.
Location: Fatih
Status: Not open to public
Byzantine Era
Located in the Bakırköy district, this cistern served the imperial palace complex of Hebdomon. Partially excavated and studied.
Location: Bakırköy
Status: Archaeological site
Discovered during road construction in 2010, this cistern was recently restored and opened to visitors. Located in the Süleymaniye district near the famous mosque, it features impressive vaulted ceilings and now serves as a cultural venue.
Opened: 2020
Access: Open to visitors
Features: Event space, exhibitions
Found beneath a parking lot in 2012, this cistern surprised archaeologists with its excellent condition. The restoration project included modern lighting and walkways, making it accessible to visitors while preserving its historical character.
Opened: 2019
Access: Open to visitors
Features: Modern amenities
Underground chambers supported by rows of columns, like the Basilica Cistern. The most common type in Constantinople.
Large rectangular pits with sloped sides, like the Cistern of Aetius. Used for storing massive quantities of water.
Smaller private cisterns built beneath palaces and wealthy homes. Often more ornate with decorative elements.
Many of Constantinople's cisterns have been lost to time, destroyed during various periods of the city's long history, or remain inaccessible beneath modern buildings. Historical records mention over 150 cisterns, but only about 100 have been located and identified.
Istanbul continues to surprise archaeologists with cistern discoveries during construction projects. Each new finding adds to our understanding of Byzantine Constantinople's remarkable water infrastructure.
"Every excavation in old Istanbul has the potential to reveal another piece of the ancient water puzzle."
Allow 3-4 hours for the main three cisterns in Sultanahmet area.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket or museum pass to save money if visiting multiple cisterns. The three main cisterns (Basilica, Theodosius, and Binbirdirek) are all within walking distance in Sultanahmet.
Check opening hours in advance, as smaller cisterns may have limited visiting hours or require reservations for group tours.
Historical Records
Cisterns Located
Open to Visitors
Years Old
Start your journey through the city's Byzantine water chambers