Binbirdirek Cistern

Binbirdirek Cistern is a historical building located in the Fatih district of Istanbul and dating back to the Byzantine Empire. This cistern is known as the second largest cistern in Istanbul and is estimated to have been built in the 4th century. Binbirdirek Cistern, one of the most important tourist attractions in Istanbul, has great importance both historically and architecturally.

Binbirdirek Cistern has a structure that originally contained 224 columns, but 212 of them remain standing today. The cistern covers an area of 3584 square meters and each of its columns is approximately 5 meters high. The construction of the cistern may have been carried out by Roman-origin senator Philoksenos during the reign of Emperor Constantine I.

The cistern dried up over time and was used as a workshop since the 16th century. Sealed bricks from the Justinian period were also found in the cistern, indicating that the structure dates back to earlier periods. Although there is no decoration on the tops of the columns in the cistern, signs of Byzantine masters can be seen on some of them. During the Ottoman period, the cistern was used as an area where silk and thread looms were established.

In modern times, Binbirdirek Cistern hosts various events and serves as a tourist attraction open to visitors. This building, which draws attention with its historical and atmospheric structure, is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul and is an important point to be discovered for visitors. The cistern, which can be visited for a small entrance fee, is a unique structure that reflects the historical texture of Istanbul.