Basilica Cistern: A Marvelous Ancient Water Reservoir in Istanbul
The Basilica Cistern, situated in the southwest of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, is one of the remarkable ancient structures of the city. Commissioned by Byzantine Emperor Justinianus I (527-565), this enormous underground water reservoir is known as “Yerebatan Cistern” among the locals, owing to its subterranean marble columns. As there was a basilica present in the area where the cistern now stands, it is also referred to as the Basilica Cistern.
Covering an area of approximately 140 meters in length and 70 meters in width, the rectangular-shaped cistern stands as a giant structure. Accessible via a 52-step staircase, the Cistern accommodates 336 columns, each towering at 9 meters. These columns, placed at intervals of 4.80 meters, are arranged in 12 rows of 28 columns each, supporting the vaulted ceiling of the cistern. Most of these columns are believed to have been acquired from ancient structures and sculpted using different types of marble. While the majority of the columns comprise a single part, one column is made up of two parts, with distinct features on the heads of these columns. Ninety-eight of these columns depict the Corinthian style, and the rest reflect the Dorian style. The cistern is enclosed by 4.80 meter-high brick walls, and the floor is covered with bricks, and plastered with a thick layer of brick dust mortar for water-tightness. In total, the cistern covers an area of 9,800 square meters and has an estimated water storage capacity of 100,000 tons.
Medusa Heads
Apart from a few edged and grooved columns, most of the cistern’s columns are cylindrical. Two of the most intriguing features of the cistern are the two Medusa heads, used as supports under the two columns at the northwest edge of the cistern. These heads, which are masterpieces from the Roman era, are the primary attraction for visitors. The structure from which the Medusa heads were taken remains unknown. Researchers suggest that these heads were brought to the cistern for use as column supports during its construction. However, myths surrounding the Medusa heads persist.
According to the legend, Medusa was one of the three Gorgons, the female monsters in the underground world of Greek mythology. The snake-headed Medusa, one of the three sisters, had the power to turn anyone who looked at her into stone. Consequently, Gorgone paintings and sculptures were used to protect large structures and special venues in that period. The head of Medusa was also engraved on the handles of swords in Byzantium and was applied onto supports of the communes in reverse (so that onlookers would not be gorgonized). Another rumor suggests that Medusa turned herself to stone by looking sideways. For this reason, the sculptor created three different positions of Medusa, depending on the reflection angles of the light.
The Basilica Cistern has been renovated several times throughout history. It was restored by Architect Kayserili Mehmet Ağa during the reign of Ahmad III (M.1723) in the Ottoman Empire, followed by Sultan Abdulhamid II (1876-1909) in the 19th century. During the construction work carried out between 1955-1960, eight columns in front of the northeast wall, located in the middle of the cistern, were at risk of breaking. As a result, each column was surrounded by a thick layer of cement, causing them to lose their original features.
Since then, the Basilica Cistern has attracted the attention of tourists from all over the world and has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Istanbul. In addition to its historical significance, the cistern is also admired for its stunning architectural design and the mesmerizing ambiance created by the dim lighting and the serene water reflections.
In recent years, the Basilica Cistern has undergone extensive restoration work to ensure its preservation and maintain its structural integrity. The restoration process has included repairs to the columns, brick walls, and the water supply system. Furthermore, the Medusa heads have been carefully cleaned and restored to their former glory.
Today, the Basilica Cistern stands as a testament to the magnificent engineering skills of the ancient Byzantine civilization and their ability to create awe-inspiring structures that stand the test of time. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the secrets hidden in the depths of Istanbul.
