After a recommendation from Sharon J we added the Basilica Cistern to our must do list for our few days here in Istanbul.
What a surprising tourist attraction. This huge, palace-like underground hall, supported by 336 columns in 12 rows is a marvel! The cistern stored 100 000 tonnes of water for the Byzantine emperors. Istanbul, surrounded by sea wherever you look, is fresh water poor.
And like all good tourist attractions the intriguing Medusa stones at the base of two columns, one Medusa upside down and the other on her side, made a focal point that is fascinating and rather quirky.
The sculptures that 'float' in the water are quite beautiful. Having seen the jellyfish of the Bosporous, these blown glass and scrap metal sculptures were my favourite.
