Theodosius Cistern, Ancient Roman cistern in Fatih, Turkey
The Theodosius Cistern is a Byzantine-era underground water storage facility beneath Istanbul, supported by 32 marble columns with Corinthian capitals and topped by 45 vaulted sections. The rectangular chamber spans 960 square meters and creates a vast underground space for holding water from outside the city.
This water storage facility was built during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II between 408 and 450 CE. It supplied the city of Constantinople through aqueducts that carried water from sources outside the urban area.
The space reflects how the city's residents managed and valued water resources during its peak. The regular window placement and ventilation design show practical concern for water quality at a time when such engineering details were uncommon.
Access is down a staircase into the depths, and the interior is lit to reveal the structure. Visitors should expect uneven floors and cool temperatures, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.
The underground space has been retrofitted with modern lighting technology to reveal the ancient structures in new ways. This blend of old architecture and contemporary illumination creates an unexpected experience for visitors exploring the site.
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