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Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour
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Tickets

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

30 min
Istanbul
€63.27/person
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€63.27per person

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Prices for Sat 14 Nov

You'll get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hour(s) before the activity date (destination local time)
  • Admission to: Bisilica CIstern
  • English-speaking guide
  • Professional guide

Not included: Hotel pick up and drop off; Transport; Meals and beverages; Other personal expenses; Tips and gratuities

Ticket: Voucher type - Present your mobile voucher

Overview

Discover the awe-inspiring Basilica Cistern, a historical marvel that dates back to the 4th century and was expanded in 532 AD. Embark on an unforgettable journey as you delve into the intriguing world of Byzantine times when the cistern served as a crucial water storage facility. Book your visit now and let our knowledgeable guides unravel the enigmatic Medusa heads, steeped in captivating Greek mythology. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the vast expanse of this cathedral-sized cistern, a remarkable engineering feat commissioned by Emperor Justinian I to supply water to the illustrious Great Palace. Imagine the grandeur of 80,000 cubic meters of water stored within, delivered through an impressive network of 20 kilometers of aqueducts, originating from a reservoir near the Black Sea. Be transported through time as you descend the fifty-two stone steps into the very heart of this extraordinary structure. Admire the precision and craftsmanship of the four-meter-thick firebrick wall, meticulously coated with waterproofing mortar, ensuring the preservation of this ancient wonder. Enthralling tales await as you learn how the Basilica Cistern's water originates from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Center in the enchanting Belgrade Forest. Witness the journey it undertakes through the 971-meter-long Valens Aqueduct and the 115-meter-long Mağlova Aqueduct, both masterpieces built by the visionary Emperor Justinian. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in history and marvel at the ingenuity of our ancestors.

Highlights

Marvel at the ancient Basilica Cistern, a remarkable 4th-century water storage wonder from Byzantine times
Unravel the mystery of the Medusa heads from Greek mythology as our guides share captivating tales
Explore the vast expanse of this cathedral-sized cistern, an awe-inspiring legacy of Emperor Justinian I in 532 AD
Be amazed by the impressive aqueduct network, spanning 20 kilometers to deliver water from the Black Sea
Embark on a rich historical journey, tracing the water's path through centuries from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Center to the majestic Basilica Cistern

What's included

Admission to: Bisilica CIstern
English-speaking guide
Professional guide

What's not included

Hotel pick up and drop off
Transport
Meals and beverages
Other personal expenses
Tips and gratuities

Cancellation policy

  • Free cancellation with 24 hours' notice.

Additional info

Please select a tour date
[Departure] meet up at Big Bus Sultanahmet stop in front of Hagia Sophia. You can choose to depart at the following times: 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00. Make sure you take part at the time you selected at booking. Big Bus Sultanahmet stop in front of Hagia Sophia Sultanahmet, Alemdar, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Please check your email for a confirmation on the pick-up location, as it is subject to change. Please arrive at the location 15 mins before the departure time. Latecomers or no-shows can't be refunded [Attraction/experience] 30 min(s), Guided tour, Basilica Cistern [Return] at Big Bus Sultanahmet stop in front of Hagia Sophia, You can choose to return at the following times: 10:30, 12:30, 14:30, 16:30. Options available can vary based on the departure time you selected at booking and the duration of the itinerary. Day {num}
Free for children aged 0-3 Important: Infants and children must be included in the passenger headcount Children aged 4+ will be charged the same rate as adults
Prohibitions & Limitations Pets are prohibited Accessibility This activity is not stroller and wheelchair-accessible
The voucher is valid only on the specified date (and time if applicable)

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Total
From €63.27