Şerefiye Cistern: a light and sound show in the cistern of Theodosius
- Cisterns
- Binbirdirek, Sultanahmet
- Paid
Family hotels closest to Şerefiye Cistern
Visitor information
| Type | Byzantine cistern |
|---|---|
| Built | 428–443 |
| Commissioned by / architect | Emperor Theodosius II |
| Neighbourhood | Binbirdirek, Sultanahmet |
| Opening hours | Open daily during the day; the light show runs at intervals |
| Admission | Paid; run by the Fatih Municipality, and the Müzekart is not accepted. Pricing may change from period to period; see the cistern’s announcements for current information. |
| Müzekart (Turkish museum card) | Not accepted |
| Time needed | 20–30 min |
| Getting there | T1 Çemberlitaş stop, 4 min walk |
| From Sultanahmet Square | About 8 min walk (580 m) |
| Pushchair / stroller | Partly suitable. The entrance level is a modern building; you go down to the cistern by stairs or lift |
| Best time | Time your visit for the start of a light show |
Opening hours and prices can change; check the official website before you go. Map links open in Google Maps.
History of the Şerefiye Cistern
The cistern is part of the water system Theodosius built while expanding the city, and it supplied water to nearby Byzantine palaces. In the building, about 45 by 25 metres, 32 marble columns with Corinthian capitals carry brick vaults. Hidden for many years under the buildings above it, the cistern was uncovered again in 2018 through a thorough restoration by the Fatih Municipality.
The light show and your visit
The cistern’s most striking feature is a light and sound show lasting a few minutes, projected onto the columns and vaults. The show repeats at intervals; by waiting inside for a few minutes you can watch a full cycle. The modern glass building above the cistern is used for the entrance, tickets and exhibitions. The cistern also hosts concerts and events from time to time.
Which cistern should you see?
If you are short of time, the most famous and largest cistern is the Basilica Cistern. If you want a short, calm experience away from crowds and queues, Şerefiye is a good choice, and the light show is especially popular with children. You can visit it on the same walk as the Binbirdirek Cistern right next door.
Visiting tips
- Ask the staff at the entrance when the next light show cycle starts.
- The cistern is small, so less than half an hour is enough.
- The Column of Constantine and the Tomb of Mahmud II on Divanyolu are a few minutes’ walk away.
Our family hotels near Şerefiye Cistern
Walking times are approximate and measured from the hotel door; where the hotel gives its own time, we show that.
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Seven Roses Apart Hotel
Şerefiye Cistern: 8 min walk (550 m) Walking route
Apartments with kitchens in Küçük Ayasofya, with roomy options for larger families
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Emirhan Inn Hotel
Şerefiye Cistern: 8 min walk (560 m) Walking route
A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast in Küçük Ayasofya
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Sareban Hotel
Şerefiye Cistern: 8 min walk (580 m) Walking route
An alcohol-free family hotel in Küçük Ayasofya, looking out to the Marmara
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Green Life Apart Hotel
Şerefiye Cistern: 8 min walk (580 m) Walking route
Family-run apartments with kitchenettes and a sea-view roof terrace in Küçük Ayasofya
Frequently asked questions
Are the Şerefiye Cistern and the Basilica Cistern the same?
No. The Basilica Cistern is the large cistern with 336 columns opposite Hagia Sophia. Şerefiye is a smaller cistern with 32 columns near Çemberlitaş and is known for its light show.
When did the Şerefiye Cistern open?
It opened to visitors in 2018 after restoration by the Fatih Municipality.
