The Philoxenos Cistern, also known as the Binbirdirek Cistern, is a significant historical site in Istanbul. It dates back to the time of Byzantine Constantinople and is the second largest covered cistern in the city. This makes it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.
The Philoxenos Cistern is conveniently located in the Binbirdirek district of the Istanbul district of Fatih. The entrance to this historical site is at İmran Öktem Sokak 4. This information is crucial for tourists planning to visit the cistern.
The Philoxenos Cistern is an impressive structure. The underground reservoir measures 64 meters in length and 56.4 meters in width, covering an area of about 3,600 m². It was designed to hold up to 40,000 m³ of water. The cistern is a hypostyle with vaults, and its 224 columns, which are 12.4 meters high and 0.6 to 0.65 meters thick, are made of marble from the nearby Marmara Island. This information provides tourists with a sense of the scale and architectural style of the cistern.
History & Anthropology Historic house
Binbirdirek, İmran Öktem Cd. No:2, Istanbul
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The Cistern of Philoxenos, also known as the Binbirdirek Cistern, is an underground water storage facility located in Istanbul, Turkey. This ancient structure dates back to the Byzantine era and offers visitors a glimpse into the city's complex water supply system.
The cistern features impressive architecture with numerous columns supporting its vaulted ceiling. Many visitors appreciate the cool, dimly lit atmosphere that creates a sense of mystery and history. The cistern's size and engineering are often noted as impressive, given its age.
However, some visitors mention that the site is relatively small compared to other historical attractions in Istanbul, and the experience can be brief. The information provided at the site is sometimes described as limited, which may leave some visitors wanting more historical context.
The preservation state of the cistern receives mixed reviews. While some find it well-maintained, others note that it could benefit from better upkeep and restoration efforts. The lighting, while atmospheric, can make it challenging to see all details clearly.
Access to the cistern may require navigating steep stairs, which could be difficult for visitors with mobility issues. Some reviewers also mention that the entrance can be a bit tricky to find.
Overall, the Cistern of Philoxenos is generally regarded as an interesting stop for those interested in Byzantine architecture and history, but it may not be a top priority for visitors with limited time in Istanbul.
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