English live tour guide、Skip the ticket line(not security line)

Tickets(40 euro each and your guide will buy them for you from the office without waiting)、Transportation、Self expenses、Tips

Not Allowed: Weapons or sharp objects；Know Before You Go: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.；Know Before You Go: Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted.；Know Before You Go: The Basilica Cistern is not wheelchair accessible.；Know Before You Go: Keep your belongings with you at all times.

Private Basilica Cistern Tour Skip the-ticket-line Entry｜Turkey

Name: Private Basilica Cistern Tour Skip the-ticket-line Entry｜Turkey
SKU: 589045

Turkey-Istanbul

Duration:30 min(s)

Free cancellation 3 day(s) prior to experience date

Please present the e-voucher on-site

Step into the mystical world beneath Istanbul
Learn about the history of this Byzantine wonder from your expert local guide
Skip the line and save time with fast track entry to the museum
Discover the secrets and stories of the ancient underground marvel
See the legendary Medusa head sculptures

[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Instant confirmation

Package Options

Details

Sightseeing Tours

Tour Type	Private tour
Transportation method	Get there on your own
Tour types	Guided tour
Additional service & facility	Fast Track
Sightseeing type	Historic site tour
Transport	Walking

Product Info

The Basilica Cistern is the largest and most famous underground water reservoir in Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century (532 AD) during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to supply water to the Great Palace, nearby public buildings, and the imperial city.

The cistern is supported by 336 marble columns, each about 9 meters (30 feet) high, arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns. Many of these columns were reused from earlier Roman structures, which is why different column styles can be seen.

One of the most intriguing features of the Basilica Cistern is the two Medusa head bases, placed sideways and upside down. Their exact purpose is unknown, adding mystery and legend to the site.

With its dim lighting, reflections on the water, and cool, atmospheric setting, the Basilica Cistern offers visitors a unique glimpse into Byzantine engineering and ancient water management.

Today, it is one of Istanbul’s most popular historical attractions and a powerful reminder of the city’s layered past beneath the streets of the Old City.

Important Info

Reminders

Not Allowed: Weapons or sharp objects
Know Before You Go: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.
Know Before You Go: Photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted.
Know Before You Go: The Basilica Cistern is not wheelchair accessible.
Know Before You Go: Keep your belongings with you at all times.

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