THEODOSIUS CISTERN - 6

FATIH, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

This cistern is one of the best works that show how water civilization was developed in these lands before the Byzantine and Ottoman periods and how it was protected and enriched as technically and architecturally by the Ottoman Empire.

– Realm of History

THEODOSIUS CISTERN - 5

FATIH, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Spread across an area of 148 feet by 82 feet (around 45 meters by 25 meters).

The ancient cistern features a roof that is supported by 32 marble columns, each measuring over 30 feet (or 9 meters) in height.

– Realm of History

THEODOSIUS CISTERN - 4

FATIH, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Built by Roman Emperor Theodosius II between circa 428 AD and 443 AD, the Theodosius Cistern was used to store water from the Valens Aqueduct, which was the chief water-supplying system of the Eastern Roman capital of Constantinople. 

During Theodosius’ reign, the aqueduct was redistributed from its original supply to the Nymphaeum, the Baths of Zeuxippus and the Great Palace of Constantinople. 

This, in turn, involved the construction of the Theodosius Cistern. 

– Realm of History

THEODOSIUS CISTERN - 3

FATIH, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Iranian artist Ahmet Nejat presented an exhibition titled “Hiç Hali” (meaning “state of nothingness”) inside the cistern. 

The show included a golden globe with the inscription “Aşk ve Hiç” (Love and None) as well as a sound design created with the poems of Rumi.

– Realm of History

THEODOSIUS CISTERN - 2

FATIH, ISTANBUL, TURKEY

Istanbul regains an important and 1,600-year-old construction which is being opened to service with a solemn, rare and modest presentation today. 

We are starting to live the Istanbul, which we cannot apprehend when we read, today. Therefore, Istanbul begins to show itself. 

It is decorated with important works which carry the traces of old civilizations and beauties again.

– Realm of History