The Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarniçi) is one of the great works realized by Justinian in 532.The imposing building has impressive numbers: 336 columns with capitals and carved stones divided into 12 rows of 28 each, 140 meters long, 70 wide, capable of containing 80,000 cubic meters of water.it was used as a water storage of Istanbul during the Byzantine era and later ensured the water supply for the Topkapi Palace.As you descend from the street level you will find yourself in front of a real wonder: a masterpiece of Roman architecture illuminated by evocative red lights. The columns have different styles and shapes because they come from various temples: in addition to the Corinthian ones, there are also some carved with nodules, eyes and tears and shaped like tree trunks. The most fascinating are those resting on two enigmatic Medusa’s heads, one in profile and one upside down.
