1001 Direk Sarnici

Description:

• 1001 Direk Sarnici (Cistern of 1001 Columns) is the second largest Byzantine cistern in Istanbul after the Basilica Cistern. It is deemed to have been built sometime during the 4th cc, after Byzantine Emperor Constantinus I summoned certain Roman Parliament Members to Istanbul -named as Constantinople back then. When the parliament members arrived, the Philoxenus palace was built next to the Hippodrome as home to these members; and the cistern was built to provide for the Palace's water demand. The Palace did not survive to date, but the cistern, which is also called the Philoxenus Cistern by some, remains. It too was closed until a few years ago. Since it has been re-opened, it is also being used to host cocktail parties, wedding ceremonies and other types of formal events as well. It is interesting to see, but not as overwhelming as to see the Basilica Cistern, which is underground. There is a small buffet to grab a coffee or tea -first tea comes as free with your entry ticket- and a small-scale exhibition inside as well.
  
• © NileGuide2013