Europe, Featured — By Nadine Nettmann on November 22, 2010 at 11:45 am
Descending down the steps into darkness, I wasn’t sure what we would find. This wasn’t a scheduled stop on our tour of Istanbul, but sometimes the most exciting experiences are discovered along the way.
It was our first day in Istanbul and we planned on seeing the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the world renowned Spice Bazaar, all of which were amazing. My husband and I were on our way back from the Hagia Sophia when we saw a small building, a sign, and a large brick chimney-type structure. It looked interesting and since we’re always up for an adventure, we paid the fee, entered the building, and started to descend into the dark damp underground.
Multiple columns rose from the water, grasping the arched roof as subtle spotlights emitted candle-like glows. It stirred memories of Phantom of the Opera and I could just imagine a small boat weaving through the columns.
The Basilica Cistern, also known as Yerebatan Sarnici and Sunken Palace, was built around 532. It has the ability to hold up to 100,000 tons of water but the water level is kept rather low these days as it is now a museum.
Although we were told that classical music plays at certain times, the only sounds that particular afternoon were of water dripping into the pools, the noise echoing in waves just like the rings in the water.
The mystique of the Cistern increased when we traveled to the far end where two Medusa heads – one upside down and one on its side – stood at the base of two columns. It is unknown exactly why the heads of Medusa are there but it is thought they were left over from the ruins of another ancient building.
Our accidental discovery of the Basilica Cistern turned out to be the most intriguing portion of our stay in Istanbul. After all, it’s not everyday you find yourself underground, surrounded by water, staring at the head of Medusa.
For more information on the Basilica Cistern, please visit the following link:
Yerebatan Sarnici, Basilica Cistern
via Underground in Istanbul | Wine and Food Travel.
Leave a Reply