Cistern of Philoxenos – Binbirdirek Cistern Fatih İstanbul

Cistern of Philoxenos (Binbirdirek Cistern) , Istanbul’s 2nd largest cistern, is located in Sultanahmet Square, opposite the Old Courthouse. Although there is no definite information about the date of construction, one of the views is that it was built in the 4th century during the reign of Emperor Constantine I.

Cistern of Philoxenos (Binbirdirek Cistern)

Another view is that it was built in the 6th century during the Emperor Justinian Period.

It is understood that during the Ottoman Empire, the cistern was used for different purposes instead of its main purpose as a water tank.

It is claimed that the name Cistern of Philoxenos was said in reference to 224 columns in the cistern during the Ottoman period.

There are many historical buildings to visit in Istanbul. Especially cisterns affect people with their appearances. Binbirdirek cistern is just one of the places to visit in Istanbul. You can get information about places to visit in Istanbul on our website.