Witness History Illuminated: Mystical Light Shows and Enchanting Dervish Performances
09:00 AM – 06:OO PM
Every evening at 8:00 PM
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In the dreamy atmosphere of this magical cistern, watch an entrancing Whirling Dervish show: a spiritual experience of music, dance, and tradition.
Enjoy a colorful display of light mapping that takes you a journey through the history of the cistern in a breathtakingly visual way. This experience brings the ancient architecture of the facility into life.
Enter one of the oldest and most mysterious landmarks of Istanbul: an underground wonder built by Emperor Theodosius in the fifth century to store and safeguard the city’s water supply. Find yourself under Byzantine architecture at its whole glory: centuries-long vaults and columns telling tales of an ancient world beneath the city.
Pricing information can be checked on our official website.
Kindly book your spot online on our official website.
The cistern is open to visit every day between 9am to 7pm. You can check additional limitations for holidays or special events.
In order to fully experience the cistern’s atmosphere and ancient ambiance, you are free to stay up to 30 minutes inside the facility.
The facility do not have a special parking area. Visitors are recommended to use public transportation for arrival or nearby parking lots to park their personal vehicles.
Tickets are only valid for the date that is booked.
Guests are welcome to take pictures and record, without disturbing others. The use of tripods and professional photography requires permission in writing.
No, it is not allowed because of security and crowd control reasons.
No, smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is strictly banned inside the facility.
No, pets are not allowed inside the facility
Yes, the cistern is dimly lit, and the floor may be slippery. Please walk carefully to avoid any accidents.
High-heeled shoes are not recommended be worn in the cistern’s stairs and walking platforms.
Yes, to provide for your safety at the entrance stairs, please hold on to the handrails.
No, the railings are low, and leaning on them is prohibited and dangerous.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the cistern.
Humidity may cause the ceiling to leak water. Please be careful since water exposure can damage electronic devices.
