The Mysterious Basilica Cistern in Istanbul

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, is a mysterious underground palace that seems to be frozen in time, preserving a piece of the city's history. When you visit the Basilica Cistern, you will realize that it is not just a miracle of hydraulic engineering, but also a place where the past is perfectly preserved. Among the many underground cisterns in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnic) is the largest and best-preserved. In the 6th century, in order to resist the water shortage caused by foreign sieges, the Byzantine Empire built the underground cistern with tens of thousands of workers, storing the city's hope for survival. Every drop of water embodies the perseverance and wisdom of the ancients. The light and shadow in the cistern are intertwined and changeable. The majestic stone pillars from the Byzantine period support the dome and are reflected in the water, full of the shock of time. The inverted Medusa head is even more magical. Some say it is a symbol of warding off evil spirits, scaring away evil spirits with its ferocious face. Others say that the original workers used the ancient Greek building materials at will, creating a unique landscape by accident. In any case, it brings visitors unparalleled shock and endless imagination.