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In 1987 the cistern underwent massive restoration work,
which included the removal of 50,000 tons of mud and water.
Today Yerebatan Sarayi is a major tourist attraction and
offers cool respite from Istanbul's searing summer heat.
Pulsing lights, water dripping from the ceiling and eerie
music played over strategically placed speakers add an air
of mystery to the place
The cistern is 140 by 70 meters (459 by 230 feet) and holds
80,000 cubic meters of water. Supporting the ceiling of
small domes are 336 columns, many of which are mismatched
and appear to have been pilfered from elsewhere. The purpose
of the two large Medusa heads supporting a pair of columns
on the north side of the cistern is unknown, since they were
not discovered until the cistern was drained..
Address: Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet
Telephone: +90-212 522 12 59
Open Hours: Open 09:00-18:00 daily, except Monday (October
to March : 09:00-17:00
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