Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

Discover the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern, a historical marvel that dates back to the 4th century and was expanded in 532 AD. Embark on an unforgettable journey as you delve into the intriguing world of Byzantine times when the cistern served as a crucial water storage facility. Book your visit now and let our knowledgeable guides unravel the enigmatic Medusa heads, steeped in captivating Greek mythology. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the vast expanse of this cathedral-sized cistern, a remarkable engineering feat commissioned by Emperor Justinian I to supply water to the illustrious Great Palace. Imagine the grandeur of 80,000 cubic meters of water stored within, delivered through an impressive network of 20 kilometers of aqueducts, originating from a reservoir near the Black Sea. Be transported through time as you descend the fifty-two stone steps into the very heart of this extraordinary structure. Admire the precision and craftsmanship of the four-meter-thick firebrick wall, meticulously coated with waterproofing mortar, ensuring the preservation of this ancient wonder. Enthralling tales await as you learn how the Basilica Cistern's water originates from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Center in the enchanting Belgrade Forest. Witness the journey it undertakes through the 971-meter-long Valens Aqueduct and the 115-meter-long Mağlova Aqueduct, both masterpieces built by the visionary Emperor Justinian. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in history and marvel at the ingenuity of our ancestors.