Information

Regular Visiting Hours: Daily from 09:00 – 18:30

Night Shift Visiting Hours: 19:30 – 22:00
Ticket Requirement: Night-Shift Tickets are exclusively available on-site at the Basilica Cistern box office.

Please Note: Closed between 18:30 and 19:30

Closed Days: Open to Visit Every Day of the Week

Ticket Office: Open daily from 09:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Recommended Duration: 2 hours

Address: Alemdar Mahallesi, Yerebatan Cad. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey

Email: info@yerebatan.com

Phone: +90 (212) 222 28 82

Also Known As: Yerebatan Sarnıcı, Sunken Palace, Subterranean Palace

🎧 👉 Listen to a sample of the Basilica Cistern Audio Guide and buy it.

The Basilica Cistern in Turkey is an underground water reservoir built in the 6th century during Byzantine rule in Istanbul. Commissioned by Emperor Justinian I, it was designed to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and nearby areas.
On this page, you'll find essential details for planning your visit to this historic cistern.

Admission & Ticket Options

1) Entrance Ticket & Guided Tours

2) Combo Tickets

3) City Passes

For details on passes that grant access to this attraction, please refer to the passes page.

>> View all available passes here.

Exhibitions & Collections

Medusa Heads: Two ancient Medusa carvings, repurposed as column bases, are among the cistern’s most intriguing elements, with their origins and positioning remaining a subject of speculation.
The Weeping Column: A column distinguished by its teardrop-like carvings, believed to have been dedicated to the memory of enslaved workers who built the cistern.
Vaulted Ceiling & Architectural Design: The structure’s brick-lined walls and arches are designed to withstand seismic activity, showcasing the advanced engineering techniques of the Byzantine Empire.
Subterranean Water Reflection: The shallow water within the cistern enhances its mystical atmosphere, creating reflections that amplify its grandeur.

How to Get There

By Tram: The closest stop is Sultanahmet Station (T1 Line), a short walk from the entrance.
By Metro: Visitors from the Asian side can take the Marmaray to Sirkeci Station, then transfer to the tram or walk to Sultanahmet.
By Bus: Public buses to Eminönü or Sirkeci provide easy access, with a 10-minute walk to the cistern.

Visitor Guidelines & Practical Information

Last entry typically one hour before closing.
Entry Fee: Admission tickets are required, and pricing varies for adults, children, and guided tours.
Photography: Non-flash photography is allowed, but tripods and professional equipment require special permission.
Accessibility: The site has been renovated to improve accessibility, but some uneven surfaces and stairs may pose challenges for visitors with mobility impairments.
Best Visiting Times: Monday to Thursday mornings

History of Basilica Cistern

Commissioned by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern was built to supply water to the Great Palace of Constantinople and surrounding areas. It was part of a vast network of water storage systems, receiving water from the Belgrad Forest via the Valens Aqueduct.

Following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, the cistern remained in use for some time but was later abandoned as the Ottomans developed their own water systems. Rediscovered in the 16th century by travelers, it was eventually restored and opened to the public.
Today, it stands as an important historical site, offering insight into Byzantine engineering and Istanbul’s rich architectural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Basilica Cistern

Do you need to pre-book a Basilica Cistern?

To save time and money, we recommend booking your Basilica Cistern tickets online.

How long is the queue for the Basilica Cistern?

Queue times for the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul vary depending on the season and time of day. During peak tourist hours (midday and weekends), wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour. To avoid long lines, it is recommended to visit early in the morning on weekdays or opt for a skip-the-line Basilica Cistern ticket.

Can you enter the basilica for free?

No, entry to the Basilica Cistern requires a paid ticket. Standard admission fees apply, with discounts available for certain groups, such as students and children. Visitors should check official ticket prices and guided tour options before planning their visit.

Is the Basilica Cistern worth it?

Yes, the Basilica Cistern is one of the top historical attractions in Istanbul, offering a unique glimpse into Byzantine engineering and architecture. Its mystical underground atmosphere, iconic Medusa heads, and impressive marble columns make it a must-visit site for history enthusiasts and travelers exploring Istanbul’s UNESCO-listed landmarks.

How much time to spend in Basilica Cistern?

A typical visit to the Basilica Cistern takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on crowd levels and interest in its architectural details. Visitors taking a guided tour or exploring at a leisurely pace may spend up to an hour admiring its historical features, including the Medusa Heads and the Weeping Column.