If I write everything on the website, there will be nothing left to tell my guests who join my private guided tours. WebCistern of Theodosius discounts - what to see at Istanbul - check out reviews and 10 photos for Cistern of Theodosius - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Cistern of Theodosius The Basilica Cistern takes its name from the Stoa Basilica, the public square under which it was built. The cisterns total area (while much smaller than the Basilica Cistern) still measures an impressive 45 x 25 metres (148 x 82 feet!). Words: Jennifer Hattam. Reserve a ticket for your trip to Istanbul today. To avoid long waits, its recommended to arrive around ten minutes before the next show. Words: Jennifer Hattam. On this 30-minute tour, visit the 4th-century Basilica Cistern and discover the mystery of WebVisiting Hours: Theodosius Cistern is open between 10:00 and 19:00. The cistern is located at an easy walking distance from Sultanahmet Square. The city's system consisted of more than 60 aqueduct bridges as well as numerous tunnels, some of them reaching 1.5 km in length. WebYou can buy tickets at the entrance. Read also: Istanbul Underground Attractions: A Journey Beneath the City (2023). The Madusa head in the Cistern remain mysterious. Using beautiful graphics and music, the show leads you on a journey through the history of Byzantium, Constantinople and Istanbul. However, if you go at 9:30, you may have to wait for half an hour. You are welcome. Foundation legend of Istanbul dates back to Ancient Greece. Theodosius Cistern Ticket Price & Hours [Updated 2023] February 24, 2023by Serhat Engul Theodosius Cisternis located in Sultanahmet, one of the most popular touristic centers of Istanbul. In order to reach the underground cistern, you enter a modern-designed glass room and go down the stairs. It was the basilica with a wooden roof, built by architect Rufinus. Online tickets sold by GetYourGuide are slightly more expensive than standard Basilica Cistern tickets. You can always visit the cistern, which is also open on holidays. Reserve a ticket for your trip to Istanbul today. The city, founded in the prominent and admirable location and surrounded by water lacked one crucial resource - a local supply of fresh water. Demi Perera, a London-based travel journalist, shares a snapshot of her recent trip to Istanbul, Turkey. Entrance Fee: The entrance fees The Ottomans repaired the Valens Aqueduct and continued to bring water to the city through the Roman system. How to get to the Theodosius Cistern? Note: The Museum Pass is not valid for the entries to this museum. Working hours: 09:00-18:00, Sunday 09:00-15:00, seven days a week. , . WebYou can buy tickets at the entrance. However, it was completely closed in 2020 due to Covid and never opened again. Theodosius Cistern opening hours are between 09:00 in the morning to 22:00 in the evening. Just went. Also, Serefiye Cistern (Theodosius Cistern) is open every day of the week and the ticket price is 100 Turkish Liras. A: A cistern is an underground chamber designed to store and hold water, often built in areas with limited water resources or to ensure a water supply during sieges. I offer PRIVATE HALF DAY TOUR which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. Guests will also enjoy the delicious free breakfast. You can pay by credit card or Turkish lira at the box office. Location: Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. Shortage of water supplies was not a problem for this small community because only a few thousand people resided there at that time. It is located between the Sultanahmet Square area and the Cemberlitas Square area. FIRST TIME IN THE WORLD: 360 PROJECTION MAPPING. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Behind the Obelisk of Constantine turn right into ler Sk Street. With scenic coastlines, rugged mountains, peaceful villages and dramatic natural features, Turkey is a hikers dream. It is located between the Sultanahmet Square area and the Cemberlitas Square area. On your right you will see the glass building of Theodosius Cistern. It is open daily from 10am to 7pm and hosts periodic art exhibitions and other events. I read somewhere that they opened it for visitor while restoration but wasnt sure. WebThe Theodosius Cistern ( Greek: , Turkish: erefiye Sarnc) is one of many ancient cisterns of Constantinople that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey. This solution soon became insufficient for the growing city and was greatly extended. Theodosius Cistern Entrance Fee 2023. Basilica Cistern is no doubt the most famous among them. Your blog has so much valuable and detail information. However, the Basilica Cistern wasnt open during our visit in August/September of 2021. Until recently, the Basilica Cistern was the only structure that could be visited among the Byzantine Cisterns in Istanbul. Its ridiculous. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. In this city, the cisterns formed a unique storage and distribution system, far more extensive and developed than in any other location. WebCistern of Theodosius discounts - what to see at Istanbul - check out reviews and 10 photos for Cistern of Theodosius - popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Cistern of Theodosius Basilica Cistern is adjacent to Istanbuls most visited historical sites, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The Aqueduct of Valens was redistributed by Theodosius from its original supply to the Nymphaeum, the Baths of Zeuxippus and the Great Palace of Constantinople. Not going this time then. It might seem that everything erected in Constantinople in the 5th and the 6th centuries was of colossal proportions: mainly regarding its public buildings and fortifications, but also the water supply system. Basilica Cistern is located in the heart of Sultanahmet, Istanbuls most touristic district. I offer PRIVATE HALF DAY TOUR which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Basilica Cistern and the Spice Bazaar. Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul. The three main reservoirs could hold more than 600 thousand cubic meters, that is three-quarters of the known storage volume within Constantinople. The cistern was discovered by pure luck in 2010. For example, if you are going to visit the cistern for the light show at 10:00, it is recommended to be there around 9:50. The total number of the cisterns that existed in Constantinople remains a question of scholarly debate. Author of this blog, Serhat Engul, is a licensed tour guide based in Istanbul. Learn about its origins, architecture, and what to expect when visiting this captivating subterranean marvel. Although founded on a perfectly located peninsula surrounded by the sea, Istanbul lacked local springs and bringing fresh water from the woods at the outskirts of the city has always been an issue since Roman times. Weberefiye Cistern. In addition, there is the Sarnic (Cistern) Restaurant and the Nakilbent Cistern located under a carpet store. He is best-remembered for promulgating the Theodosian law code and for the construction of the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople. This hostel even organizes their own events every day of the week. Those with skip-the-line tickets meet with their guide at the entrance and enter the museum as a group. Web4.5 349 reviews #28 of 1,628 things to do in Istanbul Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks Architectural Buildings Open now 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About 1600 years old erefiye Cistern is the worlds oldest landmark which is implemented with 360 projection mapping. Suggested duration < 1 hour The Theodosios Cistern also hosts periodic concerts, showcasing classical Turkish music, classical Western music, and baroque music. So, if youre planning a trip to Istanbul, be sure to add this hidden gem to your itinerary! Entrance to the cistern of Theodosius (erefiye Sarnc) Website: https://www.serefiyesarnici.istanbul/en. WebThere is a 360 Projection Mapping show at the Theodosius Cistern that starts every hour. In the image above, you can see a photo of the cistern taken after the restoration. In his biography, Sinan described the aqueducts he had constructed in the area of Belgrad Forest to provide fresh water for the inhabitants of Istanbul in such great detail that it seems they were more significant to him than the great mosques such as ehzade or Sleymaniye. Thank you for your awesome post and amazing pictures. Covering a 24m x 40m area with a ceiling up to 11 meters, the cistern features 45 sail vaults and 32 columns. Required fields are marked *. stanbul'da Bizans Dnemi Sarnlarnn Mimari zellikleri Ve Kentin Tarihsel Topografyasndaki Dalm, The water supply of Byzantine Constantinople, Ruling the waters: managing the water supply of Constantinople, AD 3301204, Historical Aqueducts of stanbul and Dynamic Analysis of Paa Kemeri Aqueduct, A Study on Mimar Sinans Magnificent Work Maglova Aqueduct. Valens Aqueduct originally brought water from the slopes of the hills between Kathane and the Sea of Marmara. Hi. Theodosius Cistern entrance fee is 150 Turkish Lira as of 2023. To exemplify, Walls of Constantinople (also known as Theodosian Walls) that guarded the city from any kind of threat for ages, was constructed under his reign. WebThere is a 360 Projection Mapping show at the Theodosius Cistern that starts every hour. Have a good day! You can always visit the cistern, which is also open on holidays. From Old City Hotels; Get the T1 Tram to Cemberlitas station. Add to wishlist. Unforgettable scenes of many famous movies were filmed in Basilica Cistern. This emperor has an important place in Byzantine history due to his architectural contributions to the city of Constantinople. Hi Lacy, no official information has been given about when the Basilica Cistern will reopen. You can get there on foot from the same tram stop. Holy guacamole, 300? Istanbul has always lured traders and shoppers. On this 30-minute tour, visit the 4th-century Basilica Cistern and discover the mystery of They connected the water pipes to the public fountains they built on the streets and provided water in this way. Entrance to the cistern of Theodosius (erefiye Sarnc) Website: https://www.serefiyesarnici.istanbul/en. You can always visit the cistern, which is also open on holidays. Web4.5 349 reviews #28 of 1,628 things to do in Istanbul Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks Architectural Buildings Open now 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Visit website Call Email Write a review About 1600 years old erefiye Cistern is the worlds oldest landmark which is implemented with 360 projection mapping. Situated in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul as one of the earliest examples of the water structures of the city with a history of 1600 years, the erefiye Cistern does not offer an inscription but is believed to be built during the rule of Theodosius II (408-450) based on the architectural characteristics. A stunning look at some of the world's must-see classics and contemporary marvels you have to see for yourself. There are light shows every hour in the cistern, which was recently restored and opened to visitors. In the latest studies, there are 211 Byzantine-era cisterns catalogued, and this astonishing quantity signifies their crucial importance for Constantinoples water supply strategy. 70? These precious pieces were discovered in 1935 beneath the western courtyard of Hagia Sophia by the German archaeologist Alfons Maria Schneider. Moreover, according to Notitia Urbis Constantinopolitanae, a list of monuments, public buildings and civil officials in Constantinople during the mid-5th century, the Cistern of Theodosius was located within Region V, at the opposite side of the Mese, the main thoroughfare of ancient Constantinople. Hint: An hourly show supported by 360 Projection-Mapping improves your perception of the cistern by 3D effects reflected on the walls, columns and ceiling. In order to find the Piyer Loti Street, you need to take the Sultanahmet Tram Station behind you and walk in the direction of the next tram stop which is called as Cemberlitas Tram Station. Its an excellent option for those interested in exploring lesser-known historical sites in Istanbul. The Aetius Cistern is another hidden gem of Istanbul, built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. I think around 200 Turkish Lira, which equates to about 10 Dollars, would have been a fair price. The water conveyance system, crucial for the inhabitants of the city, underwent major renovations in the 6th, the 8th, and the 12th centuries. Hi! The first production to film the Cistern was In 1963, From Russia With Love starring Sean Connery. Here's our guide to shopping in this dazzling city, from the Grand Bazaar to the boutiques of Nianta. The other museums in this category are the Basilica Cistern, the Miniaturk Museum, the Panorama 1453 Museum and the Tekfur Palace Museum respectively. Information on visiting hours was last updated on June 2, 2023. The erefiye Cistern is open daily from 09:00 to 22:00. Guided tours of the cistern are free with Istanbul E-pass with no waiting time at the entrance. The museum is located in Sultanahmet, Istanbuls most touristic district. Each column is adorned with intricate Corinthian capitals, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of the Byzantine era. From Taksim Hotels: Take the funicular to Kabatas and get the T1 Tram to Cemberlitas. One of them is the Cistern of Philoxenos, also known as the Binbirdirek Cistern. Located conveniently in historic peninsula, just 300 m from the sea. This was the oldest inhabited area of the city with the largest population and this is the location of all the large covered reservoirs. Basilica Cistern (aka Underground Cistern) might be the grandest of these cisterns but Theodosius Cistern is surely the most surprising. The municipal building was torn down in 2010, initiating an eight-year restoration project for the cistern that was carried out by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the General Directorate of Foundations. The largest of these was the Basilica Cistern, and it carried water to monumental structures such as Hagia Sophia and the Great Palace. All three were part of a 250 km-long system that brought fresh water from the Belgrad Forest north of the city through the Aqueduct of Valens and eventually to the ornate drinking fountains that can still be seen scattered around stanbul. WebOn Foot. Thanks again. The ticket price of the cistern was last revised in June 2023 and has not changed since then. The Turkish name of the cistern - erefiye Sarnc - means Goodwill Cistern. Your email address will not be published. Suggested duration < 1 hour Thus, it combines the best features of the other two cisterns: magical water-world atmosphere and splendid solitude. Mesmerizing the visitors with a history of 1600 years, the erefiye Cistern meets history with art and technology using 360 mapping system for the first time in Turkey. However, after the Ottomans conquered the city in 1453, the cistern was lost for a long time. If you choose to see the light show then the entrance fee is 100 Turkish Lira or $11.31USD / 9.66. Delve deep into Istanbuls hidden gems as we explore the mysteries of the Theodosius Cistern, one of the citys magnificent Byzantine relics. Many cisterns were built in the city to store the water coming from this aqueduct. More information: https://www.dailysabah.com/history/2018/04/27/theodosius-cistern-a-witness-to-istanbuls-long-history Report inappropriate content 1-2 of 2 replies Sorted by 1 The Theodosius Cistern: Unraveling Istanbuls Ancient Secrets (2023), Visit the Theodosius Cistern with Guided Tours, Enjoy Free Entry to the Theodosius Cistern and Guided Tour with Istanbul E-Pass, The Light Show: A 360 Journey Through Time, Cistern Concerts: A Unique Musical Experience, Comparing Theodosius Cistern and Basilica Cistern, Istanbul Underground Attractions: A Journey Beneath the City (2023), Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. It covers nearly 1000 square meters. 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WebLatest travel itineraries for Cistern of Theodosius in May (updated in 2023), Cistern of Theodosius reviews, Cistern of Theodosius address and opening hours, popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Cistern of Theodosius - Trip.com https://www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/istanbul/cistern-of-theodosius-56019185/ These laws (Theodosian Codes 16.1.2 and 16.5.6) are significant for many reasons. "Member of TRSAB - Association of Turkish Travel Agencies - License Number: 8644", Asmal Mescit Mahallesi, Merutiyet Caddesi avuolu Merkezi, No:61, Kat:5, Daire:22 Beyolu/stanbul. It was not the last one, either, with the most famous Basilica Cistern added in the 6th century. Istanbul Museum Pass is not valid in Theodosius Cistern (aka Serefiye Sarnici). The twenty minute show is a retrospective visual celebration that goes through the magnificent past of Istanbul using light illustration and thematic background music. WebVisiting Hours: Theodosius Cistern is open between 10:00 and 19:00. Where is the Serefiye Cistern located? The light show is well designed to make the most out of the cavernous dark space. WebThe Theodosius Cistern ( Greek: , Turkish: erefiye Sarnc) is one of many ancient cisterns of Constantinople that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern was built in the 5th century to store water supplied by the Valens Aqueduct. 4.3 / 5. The erefiye Cistern is the first Turkish museum and the oldest building in the world to feature a 360 projection mapping system. Im planning to go to Istanbul in May and I wish I could visit the cistern. Renovations?) A very affordable day of sightseeing at some amazing historical locations. Filed Under: MUSEUMS Tagged With: Istanbul Sightseeing, Museums of Istanbul. https://www.istanbultourstudio.com/tours/theodosius-cistern. The foundation legend of Istanbul dates back to Ancient Greece. The problem had been older than Constantinople, as the first conduit system to bring water from afar, 47 km long, was created by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE, when the settlement had been known as Byzantium. How to get to the Theodosius Cistern? Almost all of them were fed by the water-conveyance systems rather than by rainwater as testified by their large dimensions. For those who want to know more about this, here is a great documentary released by Byzantium 1200. Where is the Serefiye Cistern located? A part of these aqueducts built by Emperor Valens can still be seen in Istanbul. WebLatest travel itineraries for Cistern of Theodosius in May (updated in 2023), Cistern of Theodosius reviews, Cistern of Theodosius address and opening hours, popular attractions, hotels, and restaurants near Cistern of Theodosius - Trip.com https://www.trip.com/travel-guide/attraction/istanbul/cistern-of-theodosius-56019185/ The cistern is open to visitors every day of the week. WebThe Theodosius Cistern is located around half a kilometre from Basilica Cistern, but remains rather unknown and rarely sees crowds of visitors. Walk 400 m to Piyer Loti Cd. For this reason, it is very easy to reach the museum. Sometimes concerts are held here, during which it is closed to the public (only with concert tickets). WebIstanbul: Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour. No:2/1, 34122 Fatih/stanbul. Theodosius Cistern is a 10-minute walk from Sultanahmet Maidan and Cisterna Basilica, and 5 minutes from Hippodrome. The light show is every hour on the hour and only lasts about 10 minutes. Entrance Fee: The entrance fees Cast from a central projector onto all of the Cisterns walls the show is immersive and mesmerizing. All Rights Reserved (2015-2023) - By Serhat Engul. History Arches of the Theodosius Cistern Theodosius Cistern entrance fee is 150 Turkish Lira as of 2023. 17 reviews 2 helpful votes Theodosius Cistern is open 5 years ago Save A new Cistern, Theodosius Cistern, has been open, it's in Pierre Loti Street. Your email address will not be published. The Cistern is in the Fatih district of Istanbul, within the fabled old walled city of Constantinople. The modern entrance is in Piyer Loti Caddesi, Fatih . These laws (Theodosian Codes 16.1.2 and 16.5.6) are significant for many reasons. Here's what you need to know as a first-time visitor. Although these dimensions make it smaller than the Basilica and Binbirdirek cisterns, the visit to the Theodosius Cistern is a very rewarding experience. They mark the Since the Theodosius Cistern (aka Serefiye Sarnici) is not affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Istanbul Museum Pass is not valid in this museum. It is open daily from 10am to 7pm and hosts periodic art exhibitions and other events. From the Hippodrome. The Historical Peninsula on which Constantinople was founded was a place known for its scarcity of water resources. The cistern is not only a tourist attraction as it also hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. A marvel of Roman architecture and engineering, the cistern supplied water to Constantinople for close to a millennium. Public spaces and structures of Byzantine, Learn how and when to remove this template message, "Theodosius Cistern, a witness to Istanbul's long history", "The Water Supply of Byzantine Constantinople", "The Byzantine Cisterns of Constantinople", Installing a Cistern that is Easy in Modern Time, Churches and Monasteries of Constantinople, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Theodosius_Cistern&oldid=1107340056, Buildings and structures completed in the 5th century, 5th-century establishments in the Byzantine Empire, Articles needing additional references from October 2019, All articles needing additional references, Articles containing Turkish-language text, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 29 August 2022, at 13:40.