Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
6
When the Byzantine Emperors decided to build something, they certainly didn't cut
corners! This extraordinary subterranean cistern located opposite Aya Sofya features a
wildly atmospheric forest of columns (336 to be exact), vaulted brick ceilings, mysterious
carved Medusa-head capitals and ghostly patrols of carp. A testament to the ambitious
town planning and engineering expertise of the Byzantines, the cistern has played a starring
role in innumerable motion pictures (remember
From Russia with Love?
) and is now one
of the city's best-loved tourist attractions.
Sultanahmet & Around
IZZET KERIBAR/GETTY IMAGES ©
