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Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern reopened to visitors on June 6 after maintenance and arrangement works were completed, with Turkish citizens allowed to visit the historic site free of charge throughout June.
Authorities announced that the cistern began welcoming visitors again at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, following a short closure for technical and visitor-related improvements.
The General Directorate of Foundations said the works were carried out after a change in the site’s management process. The directorate stated that the steps taken aimed to support the long-term protection of the historic structure while improving safety, infrastructure and the visitor experience.
As part of the work, officials said visitor entry and exit routes were reorganized, security systems were renewed and some technical shortcomings were addressed.
Authorities also confirmed that Turkish citizens will be able to visit the Basilica Cistern free of charge throughout June.
The reopening comes after an appeals court recently issued a stay of execution decision regarding the transfer of the historic structure from the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, known as IMM, to the General Directorate of Foundations.
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