Binbirdirek Cistern

The cistern is located in Sultanahmet to the west of the Hippodrome.It is the second biggest cistern of Istanbul after Bassilica Cistern,which is also situated in Sultanahmet and that used to provide water from Belgrat forest in Sariyer. It was recently cleaned and connected with a gallery to the side street. Now the cistern, measuring 64 by 56 meters, is an easily accessible, interesting and beautiful site to visit. Binbirdirek was built in the 4th century during the reign of Constantine the Great,to Istanbul and historical sources attribute it to Philoxenus. Of the 224 original columns, 212 are still standing. The thick walls of the cistern, the brick vaults, the columns in two tiers bound together by stone ties, and the plain column capitals create an impressive atmosphere. During the renovation work small booths for vendors, a cafe, and exhibition areas were constructed, and the hollow section in the middle of the cistern was cleaned of mud to show the original height of the columns.Source: http://english.istanbul.gov.tr