Mesmerizing visitors with a history spanning 1600 years, the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern seamlessly integrates history with art and technology, pioneering the use of a 360° mapping system for the first time in Turkey. Situated in Istanbul's Historical Peninsula, this cistern stands as one of the earliest examples of the city's water structures, believed to have been built during the reign of Theodosius II (408-450) based on its architectural characteristics.

Cisterns: The Lifeblood of the City

Throughout Istanbul's history, structures for water storage were essential due to insufficient sources, high population, and frequent sieges. The Şerefiye and Basilica cisterns are notable examples, supplying water to various parts of the city. The Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern, covering a 24m x 40m area with a ceiling height of 11 meters, features 45 sail vaults and 32 columns adorned with Corinthian capitals made of specially imported Marmara Island marble. Its inner walls are lined with watertight plaster, and its design ensures pressure resistance with curved corners and thick walls.

The Hidden Heritage of 1600 Years

Named after Roman Emperor Theodosius II, the cistern's surroundings have undergone transformations over centuries. The Arif Pasa Estate, constructed in the late 18th or early 19th century, once housed the Istanbul Municipality and later served various municipal functions. Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's demolition of adjacent buildings in 2010 revealed the Theodosius Cistern without damaging the monument, leading to the creation of an archaeological park around it.

The Şerefiye Cistern boasts the world's first museum implementation of a 360° projection mapping system. This innovative technology offers a unique interactive experience, providing three-dimensional spatial perception and tracing the water culture of both the cistern and Istanbul.

The third part of the show offers a reinterpretation of Istanbul's collective memory and historical layers, bringing to life periods from Byzantine to Ottoman times through vivid interpretations and accompanying icons and Turkish tile art.

A New Historical Space Experience

In the final part of the show, the story shifts to the founding of the Turkish Republic following the Turkish War of Independence. The mapping display reflects the cistern's unique historical and architectural significance, marking the end of a journey through 1600 years of history.

Combining History, Sound, and Light  

Beyond its historical relevance, the Şerefiye Cistern enthralls guests with an immersive audio-visual encounter.  To take guests across time, the especially created 360° projection mapping technology deftly combines light, sound, and narrative.  Using cutting-edge technologies, the performance emphasizes the development of the cistern and its influence on Istanbul's water system.  Every visual change is painstakingly matched with music to create an enchanted environment that accentuates the majesty of the old construction.  

An Attractive Must-See in Istanbul  

 Now among Istanbul's most amazing attractions, the Şerefiye Cistern presents the ideal fusion of creativity and tradition.  While appreciating a singular show that brings centuries-old tales to life, visitors may tour its well maintained architecture.  The Şerefiye Cistern promises a trip unlike any other, regardless of your interests—history, art and technology, or just something unforgettable in Istanbul.