Theodosius Cistern

The Cistern of Theodosius, in Istanbul

The Cistern of Theodosius is a covered water reservoir dating from the Byzantine era, older and more discreet than the Basilica Cistern. The Istanbul audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this work built under Theodosius II in the fifth century, element of the system of aqueducts that supplied Constantinople, long restored and today open to the public, that also serves as a concert hall thanks to a spectacular lighting.

History

The cisterns were the most widespread type of construction in Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire. For lack of rivers nearby, it was necessary to organise the water supply of the city thanks to a whole system of aqueducts; and as the city was constantly coveted, it was essential to have large reservoirs of drinking water in case of siege. This cistern is smaller than the Basilica Cistern, and older: it was built under Theodosius II, as its name indicates, in the fifth century. Restored for eight years, it now opens its doors to the public and also serves as a concert hall, endowed with a lighting system planned for this purpose, which makes it an original way to discover it. This vast underground space, supported by its columns and bathed in a worked light, testifies to the hydraulic genius of the Byzantines and to the vital importance of water for a threatened city. It is best to enquire about the programme to enjoy a possible concert.

What to see

Here you descend into a Byzantine underground reservoir of the fifth century, built under Theodosius II, older than the Basilica Cistern; restored for eight years, it is visited today in a spectacular lighting and even hosts concerts. The Cistern of Theodosius testifies to the hydraulic genius of Constantinople. It is a fine stop, to be explored on foot.

Practical information

The Cistern of Theodosius lies in the Sultanahmet district, near the Basilica Cistern, in Istanbul, reachable on foot. The access is paying and the hours vary; concerts are sometimes programmed there. It is best to enquire before coming.

What is the Cistern of Theodosius in Istanbul?

It is a covered water reservoir of the Byzantine era, built under Theodosius II in the fifth century, older and smaller than the Basilica Cistern; element of the system of aqueducts that supplied Constantinople in case of siege, it has been restored for eight years and is visited today in a spectacular lighting, also serving as a concert hall.

Where is the Cistern of Theodosius in Istanbul?

In the Sultanahmet district, near the Basilica Cistern, in Istanbul, in Turkey.