Cistern of the Hebdomon, Byzantine water reservoir in Bakırköy, Turkey.
The Cistern of Hebdomon is a large ancient water reservoir built with thick walls featuring alternating layers of bricks and stones. Two water outlets are located along the south wall at different elevations.
The reservoir was built between the 5th and 8th centuries and supplied water to two imperial palaces near the Marmara seashore. These palaces held important roles in the Byzantine Empire.
The structure gained its Turkish name Fildamı after the Ottoman period, when the former water reservoir became a shelter for the Sultan's elephants.
Access to this archaeological site may be limited, so it is good to check local conditions before visiting. Wear appropriate footwear and be careful, as you should expect uneven ancient structures.
The western wall contains 19 internal niches for hillside support, while the eastern wall features 21 external niches. These niche systems show how ancient Byzantine builders managed large water pressure and hillside slopes.
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