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Top 10 Facts: Basilica Cistern at a Glance

Ten fast facts to understand the Basilica Cistern’s history, design, and lore.

12/16/2025
7 min read
Medusa base perspective and glowing columns with reflections

Quick take: From spolia columns to film cameos, here are 10 facts to anchor your visit.


  1. Built under Justinian I in the 6th century.
  2. Houses 336 columns in a neat grid.
  3. Capacity ~80,000 m³; area ~10,000 m².
  4. Survived ~22 significant earthquakes.
  5. Features reused marble columns (spolia).
  6. Likely fed by aqueducts from Belgrade Forest.
  7. Rediscovered and opened to the public in 1987.
  8. Venue for concerts, light shows, and exhibitions.
  9. Appears in films like From Russia with Love and Inferno.
  10. Holds Medusa bases that fascinate visitors.

Medusa + columns


Bottom Line

Use these facts as your orientation compass — then wander and discover.

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Istanbul Planner

Istanbul Planner

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facts
highlights
Basilica Cistern
Medusa
spolia

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