Close-up of the architectural masterpiece of the underground water tank in Istanbul
VietnamPlus•18/11/2024
One of the famous ancient structures of Istanbul (Türkiye) is the Basilica Cistern, built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I (542) and is an underground architectural masterpiece.
After about 11 hours of sleep on the flight from Vietnam to Istanbul (Türkiye) on a modern wide-body Turkish Airlines aircraft, Vietnamese tourists will arrive in Istanbul, famous for its extremely special architecture. One of the wonderful ancient structures of Istanbul is a large underground water tank called Basilica Cistern, built under Emperor Justinian I around 542. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) The Basilica Cistern is considered an underground architectural masterpiece. Its function is to store water for the entire region. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) The reservoir has a water capacity of 80,000 tons. The structure consists of 336 columns carved from ancient marble. Some of the capitals of these columns are built in the Corinthian style, while others reflect the Dorian style. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) Each pillar is 8 meters high, arranged in a neat layout in 12 rows. In addition to its supporting purpose, the pillars are a clear demonstration of the sculpting talent of the ancients. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) The dome and capitals of the water tank are beautiful works of art. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) Since 1987, the Basilica Cistern has hosted various events as a museum, the only one that has been restored and open to the public. The cistern is so attractive that it has also been the setting for Hollywood blockbusters, including a film from the James Bond series. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) Two pillars shaped like the head of Medusa - a half-human, half-snake creature in Greek mythology with the ability to turn people into stone with just one look - were used as the pillars' bases. According to ancient beliefs, this head shape was intended to ward off evil spirits. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) With the shape of Medusa’s head upside down and lying on its side, the two statues add a mysterious, spiritual and impressive color to this space. Many visitors have dropped coins here to wish for good luck. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) Close-up of an elaborately carved column head. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+) Taking advantage of the light reflecting from the water, the entire space of Basilica Cistern is shimmering and magical. (Photo: Yen Thuy/Vietnam+)
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