July 1st, 2011 
admin 
Constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinianus, the most prosperous period of the East Roman Empire, the cistern Basilica is 70 m. in width and 140 m. in lenght. The dome, covering an area of 9800 m2, is supported by 336 marble columns arrenged in 12 rows each consisting of 28 columns placed at a distance of 4m 90cm. from one another. The capitals of these 9 m. high columns are a blend of the lonic and corinthian styleswith a few exceptions which arein the doric style and not ornamented. The cistern is surrounded by a 4 m. thick wall of brick and the mortar used in constructions is very special and water-proof. The water reserved in the cistern was transported from the Belgrad forest which is 19 km. from the city.
In 1985 the Metropolitan municipality of Istanbul undertook the restoration of the cistern. On the 9th of September 1987, it was opened for visitors as a vitalizedd example of universal cultural heritage.
How can we get there? On which days it is open? On which days on which hours it is open? What is the entrance fee?
From Taksim: First you need to take the finikular from the metro station on Taksim Square to go to Kabatas. When you get Kabatas, you need to get the tram to Sultanahmet.
From Beşiktaş: You need to get the bus from Beşiktaş to Kabatas and you need to get the tram to Sultanahmet.
From Eminonu: It would be fun to walk through the tram way. In case you dont want to walk, you can get the tram and get off in the Sultanahmet Station.
From Kadıköy: Get the Kadıköy – Eminönü boat, to pass the bosphorus, from Eminonu you can get the tram to Sultanahmet.
From Üsküdar: Get the Üsküdar – Kabataş boat to pass the bosphorus, and get the tram to Sultanahmet.
Days and Opening Hours:
Opens from 09.00 to 18.30 everyday
Entrance Fee: 20 TL (10 Euro)
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