Cistern of Istanbul

The Cistern of Istanbul, also known as the Basilica Cistern, is an underground water storage facility built during the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century. It is an extensive, covered reservoir that held and supplied water to the city, supported by hundreds of towering columns arranged in rows. The cistern helped ensure a steady water supply during sieges and dry periods. Today, it’s a popular historical site, showcasing impressive architecture and engineering, with atmospheric lighting that highlights its columns and walkways submerged beneath the water.