https://ae.trip.com/moments/detail/istanbul-258-131965143?locale=en-AE
Cynthia991Hong Kong, China
levelIconExplorer

Descend into the Mystical Depths of Basilica Cistern

📍 *Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey 🇹🇷* Built during the Byzantine Empire, the Basilica Cistern was once a vital water source for Constantinople. Stepping into the underground chamber, you’re immediately enveloped in an eerie yet mesmerizing atmosphere— towering stone columns align perfectly, while the dimly lit waters cast ghostly reflections, adding to the sense of mystery. Among the most striking features are the two Medusa heads, placed upside-down at the base of the columns. According to legend, their positioning was meant to neutralize Medusa’s stone-turning curse, blending history with ancient mythology in the most intriguing way. The Basilica Cistern isn’t just a historical site—it’s an immersive journey into the depths of Istanbul’s past, where myth, architecture, and history intertwine seamlessly. #basilicacistern #istanbul #turkey #ancientmystery #hiddengems #byzantinehistory #medusalegends
Posted: May 10, 2025
Submit
0
Mentioned in This Moment
Attraction

Basilica Cistern

4.6/5733 reviews | Historic buildings
Istanbul
2025 Asia 100 – Best Things to Do
Immediate access | Book now for today
AED 135.29
View
Show More
Related Moments
Basilica Cistern

Exploring the Basilica Cistern at Istanbul

Celeste Ch
Basilica Cistern

The underground wonders in Istanbul

Andes W
Basilica Cistern

Yerebatan .. Let's go see Medusa in the ancient water tunnel.

Go Went Korn
Basilica Cistern

Beautiful and eerie ancient treasure

Atoll Explorer
Basilica Cistern

Best 1 Day Istanbul itinerary

Freebird_Grace
Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern - Istanbul

Marty O’Brien
Basilica Cistern

Must-see attractions in Istanbul, Turkey: Basilica Cistern 💕

Travellingwithmimi
Galata Tower

Turkey Romantic 5-Day Travel Guide

Jeremiah Davis
Basilica Cistern

Travelogue of Turkey's Basilica Cistern | The Mysterious Setting of 'Angels & Demons'

Chelsea yaya
Basilica Cistern

Why is the reservoir known as the underground water palace?

愛流浪的Mimi
Galata Tower

A Quick 4-Day Itinerary for Türkiye During the Qingming Festival

Emma%qs
Hagia Sophia

Türkiye 12-Day In-Depth Tour: Real Hot Spring Experience Revealed

RoamingSoul