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The Underground Cistern is located near the Saint Sophia
Church in the Sultan Ahmet district. The Turks call it "Yerenbatan
Sarayi" which means "underground palace".
The cistern was built by Justinian in the 6th century. It is 70 meters
wide and 140 meters long, with a capacity of 80,000 cu.m. of water.
The cistern is supported by 336 beautiful beautiful
columns two of which are carved with the head of Medusa on the plinth.
The cistern has been renovated and is open to the public every day of the
week.
While inside, you can enjoy classical background music,
the differently illumuinated coloumns and watch fishes swimming in the
water.
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