4/21/2017 0 Comments Basilica CisternHistorical Background: Before Basilica Cistern was used as a cistern, a basilica stood in its place. It was built between 3rd and 4th centuries during the Early Roman Age. It had a lot of purposes such as commercial, legal and artistic centre. After a while, construction started to use as a cistern by providing a water filtration system and continued to use in the same way in the term of Ottoman Empire. My Experiences: To be honest, it has been too long since I have been there. I was really interested in historical places when I was in primary school, and I was going everywhere that I wanted, if it was possible, with my mother. She is a history teacher, so she helped me to understand the meaning of some engravings and this kind of things. I was planning where I wanted to go and listed them. When I heard about Basilica Cistern first, I immediately added it to my list because its darkness and architecture were really impressive in the images on the internet. It wasn't really different than what I had expected before I visited there. Despite the small gate which was shining with all its beauty and cuteness, inside of the cistern was a really different world. The light was reverberating to the glamorous blueness at the bottom, underneath the flat battens which were helping us to see all these amazing things. I was trying to look at every side of the cistern without missing any details because every detail was a different sign of history and every column was a different story. The pattern of the columns reflected the water, and by the lights that came from several points, this amazing view turned into an artwork in my eyes. As we continued our way, the statue of a woman appeared in front of us. I didn't know who was she, why did she locate in there, but I didn't take too much time to learn. Even though there were a lot of legends about the woman called "Medusa" in the sculpture, actually it was transferred from a different place to create a base for the basilica. However, the thing that impacts me most was the coins around the "Medusa" sculpture in the water. Actually, I don't know why did they choose this place to make a wish and throw a coin. Nevertheless, I was too amazed at the scene, so everything around me seemed like they were the best things in the world. Because I was little and I didn't see this kind of places much, maybe I was exaggerating. All these things that I have written are from my primary school eyes. That is why there was nowhere to compare this place. But still, I guess, I would give the same reaction if I go there now. How to Go: Basilica Cistern is located in Fatih, close to Hagia Sophia. See how to go with metro or bus from the button below. Opening Hours:
Open: 9 am to 5.30 pm (everyday)
Students: 5 Turkish Liras Adults: 10 Turkish Liras Tourists: 20 Turkish Liras
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