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Friday, December 2, 2011

The Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern is located in Eminönü located in the historical peninsula. While walking along from the tram way in Eminönü to the direction of Sultanahmet, you can see Basilica Cistern on the right side. Basilica Cistern also known as “Sunken Palace” was built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian in BC 6th century. The purpose of construction was to meet the water needs of the Great Byzantine Palace, and also the name of Sunken Palace comes from its majestic appearance. The palace was built on an underground area of nine thousand eight hundred square meters and it is stand by three hundred thirty six marble columns. If you walk forward on the left way when you get right down to the cistern entrance, you will meet two “Medusa head” works the most important pieces of the Roman period.
After the conquest of Istanbul by Fatih Sultan Mehmet, “Basilica Cistern” was transferred to the Ottoman Empire. It was repaired twice during this period. First restoration work was made by Kayserili Architect Mehmet Aga during the period of Sultan Ahmet III in 1723. The second restoration work was made during the period of Sultan Abdülhamid II.
The Basilica Cistern hadn’t been repaired for a long time after the declaration of the republic but in 1987 and 1994 the palace was renovated twice again.
Basilica Cistern, visited and appreciated by many domestic and foreign famous people, is preferred to organize many international events. A lot of singers and music groups give concerts in the Basilica Cistern from time to time.
There are also many museums around the location of Basilica Cistern. In addition, the historical palace that is open to visitors until late hours so you can visit Basilica Cistern after visiting the other museums.

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