Cistern of Aspar

The Cistern of Aspar is an ancient underground water reservoir located in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 5th century during the reign of Emperor Zeno, it was named after Aspar, a powerful general of the time. This large cistern was designed to store water for the city, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the Byzantine Empire. It features brick and stone walls and is supported by numerous columns. Although it fell into disuse over the centuries, it remains a fascinating historical site, revealing insights into the city’s infrastructure and the importance of water supply in urban life.