Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
- Marvel at the ancient Basilica Cistern, a remarkable 4th-century water storage wonder from Byzantine times
- Unravel the mystery of the Medusa heads from Greek mythology as our guides share captivating tales
- Explore the vast expanse of this cathedral-sized cistern, an awe-inspiring legacy of Emperor Justinian I in 532 AD
- Be amazed by the impressive aqueduct network, spanning 20 kilometers to deliver water from the Black Sea
- Embark on a rich historical journey, tracing the water's path through centuries from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Center to the majestic Basilica Cistern
What to expect
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.
Reviews
we had Elif as our guide and she was absolutely amazing. we cannot thank her enough. we even booked a 2nd tour with her because of the first tour. she is knowledgeable and the tour is so good. definitely worth getting the tour with skip the line.
The tour guide will make an appointment via WhatsApp the day before the event to confirm the meeting time and location, and the arrangement process is smooth and orderly. The internal structure of the Crystal Palace is magnificent and it takes about 30 minutes to walk. If you want to hear about the history and ask questions, you can join this tour. The tour guide is patient. The tour fee includes the fare of 460 Lira.
I'm really surprised. with construction in the past Very worth the money spent.
Perfect itinerary. My tour guide was also very nice. She also introduced me to other places and gave very detailed explanations. I was very happy to have her guide.
me and my family had a great time visiting the cistern thanks to our guide Burak and his colleague.
we had Canberk as our tour guide and he's such a friendly and kind guy to hang out with! he showed a vast knowledge of the Basilica Cistern and even showed us around the area where to get breakfast, buy gifts, and so on. will definitely recommend this trip to others!
Tour guide is good, no need to wait for line is good, save time and more understanding
Good experience. My guide is good . Worth the buy. Seamless transaction. After paying already received confirmation right away. My guide contacted me prior the day of visit to the basilica.
Oguzhan was our guide for 30 minutes and was fantastic. Highly recommend skipping the line. Will save you time.
meeting point at Starbucks, informative and good guide, entry to Basilica Cistern without queues
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