Istanbul E-pass includes Discounted Serefiye Cisterm Entrance ticket. So pay €15 instead €20.
Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Istanbul
Serefiye "Theodosius" Cistern was built between 428-443. Emperor Theodosius ordered the construction of this Cistern in Istanbul, which is why it is called his name. One of the three cisterns of Significant Costantinopolis (with the 4th-century Binbirdirek Cistern and the 6th-century Basilica Cistern). The water was brought to the city from the Belgrade Forest by the Aqueduct of Valens.
What time is the Serefiye Cistern open?
It is open every day between 09:00 - 19:00. The last entrance is at 18:00..
How much is the entrance fee for the Serefiye Cistern?
The entrance fee for the museum is 20 Euros. Istanbul E-pass holders can purchase from €15.
Where is the Serefiye Cistern located?
It is located between the Sultanahmet Square area and the Cemberlitas Square area.
From Old City Hotels; Get the T1 Tram to Cemberlitas station. From there, the museum is a short 2 minutes walk away.
From Taksim Hotels; Take the funicular to Kabatas and get the T1 Tram to Cemberlitas.
From Sultanahmet Hotels; The museum is within walking distance.
How Long Does it Take to Visit the Serefiye Cistern and What is the Best Time to Visit?
Visiting this Cistern takes around 30 minutes if you see it by yourself. We recommend visiting the museum around 11 o'clock while fewer tourists prefer to visit.
General Information About the Serefiye Cistern
The Cistern was built between 428 and 443. Emperor Theodosius named the Cistern after himself. It was part of the main water system of the city. There was a lack of water sources in the town. This leads the Byzantines to build lots of cisterns to save as much rainwater as they can, in these cisterns. They used the water from these cisterns, only in an emergency, during droughts or sieges.
The Cistern is made of brick, local limestones, and hydraulic mortar. It is around 24x40 meters. Thirty-two marble columns, with Corinthian-style capitals, are supporting the roof. It was restored very well recently and opened as a museum to the public.
The Final Word
The Serefiye Cistern Istanbul is among the many wonders that give you a sneak peek into the past. It is an excellent example of the complex infrastructure developed by Byzantines. This is a beautiful place to visit and let you know about the architectural techniques of its builders.
Serefiye Cistern Operating Hours
Serefiye Cistern is open every day from 09:00 to 19:00
The last entrance is at 18:00
Serefiye Cistern Location
Serefiye Cistern is located in the Sultanahmet area in the Old Town of Istanbul.
Please click here for the exact location.
Important Notes
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Serefiye Cistern is operating every day between 09:00 to 19:00
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The last entry is at 18:00
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Present your QR code and gain entry.
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The QR codes will be sent in a separate email upon booking.
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You can skip the ticket line with your QR codes.
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Tickets are non-refundable!