Cistern of Mocius, Byzantine water reservoir at Altımermer, Istanbul, Turkey
The Cistern of Mocius is a Byzantine water storage facility at Altmermer built with walls of alternating brick and stone layers in Roman architectural style. The large structure demonstrates the solid construction techniques used in this ancient infrastructure.
Emperor Anastasius I commissioned this massive water storage facility between 491 and 518 to supply Constantinople's growing population. The project was part of broader efforts to expand the city's infrastructure.
The name refers to Saint Mocius, to whom a church was dedicated near the southwest corner of this structure in earlier times. This connection shapes how locals think about the place today.
The site now functions as Findikzade Educational Park, featuring fountains, sports courts, and exercise equipment open to the public. Visitors can explore the space as locals use it daily for recreation and wellness activities.
The walls of this structure reach about 6 meters thick and once contained six marble columns. Local people viewed these columns as protection against pests and as symbols of fertility.
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