The Basilica Cistern was built by Justinian in 532 AD. This huge underground cistern, which measures 70 meters by 140 meters, once held over 80,000 cubic meters of water. The vaulted brick roof is supported by 336 columns, each over 30 feet tall, and water was pumped through over 40 miles of aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea. The columns vary in design and intricacy with different capitals and bases scavanged from various destroyed temples.

The Haghia Sophia (or Aya Sofya or Church of the Divine Wisdom) is among the ... (more)