Theodosius Cistern
History Beneath Istanbul
Şerefiye Cistern is a historic water reservoir located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the oldest water structures in the city, with a history of over 1,600 years.
The cistern was built in the 5th century AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II. The cistern is named after the Şerefiye neighborhood in which it is located. It is also known as the Theodosius Cistern. The cistern is a rectangular structure measuring 24 by 40 meters, with a height of 11 meters. It is supported by 45 barrel vaults, which are supported by 32 columns.
The cistern was originally used to store water from the Belgrade Forest, which was brought to the city by an aqueduct. The water was used for drinking, bathing, and irrigation. The cistern fell into disuse in the 15th century after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul. It was rediscovered in the 19th century, and it was restored in the 20th century. Today, Şerefiye Cistern is a popular tourist destination. It is a unique example of Byzantine architecture, and it is a reminder of the citys rich history.