Gülhane Cistern History, Exhibits, Entrance Fee, and Visiting Hours
The Gülhane Cistern, located north of the Istanbul Archaeology Museums, is a historical structure dating back to the 5th-7th centuries AD. The exact origins and the builder of the cistern are unknown. It was discovered in 1913 when Dr. Cemil Topuzlu, the Mayor of Istanbul, transformed Gülhane Park into a public park, with permission granted by Sultan Mehmet Reşat on October 16, 1912. The remains of walls on the cistern suggest that there was once a structure built over it. Wulzinger proposed that the cistern could have been the foundation for a monastery or a bathhouse. Previously, the Gülhane Cistern served as an aquarium. Modifications for its use as an aquarium included the addition of stairs inside for visitor access and metal plates on the floor for lighting, along with iron clamps on the columns. The cistern is adjacent to a Baroque-style fountain with an inscription dating to H. 1329/ M. 1911, which was renovated by Cemil Topuzlu.
The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) has now revitalized the Gülhane Cistern, transforming it into a new cultural venue, similar to its other projects like Bebek Cistern and Cendere Art. İBB Heritage teams have meticulously carried out conservation and restoration work to preserve the original texture of the long-neglected cistern. With a contemporary lighting system, the interior of the cistern will host various events like talks and music recitals, adding a new dimension to Istanbul’s cultural scene. İBB Heritage has also restored the neighboring historical fountain, reviving its flowing water. The Gülhane Cistern in Gülhane Park will feature the “Pollen” exhibition, showcasing sculptures such as “Gelecek Güzel Günler”, “Ojakhi”, and “Rüya Odası” by artist Büşra Kölmük.
Gülhane Cistern Services Hours:
- Open every day except Mondays: 10:00 – 19:00
- Closed on Mondays
Contact Information:
- Email: [email protected]
- Address for İBB ATATÜRK LIBRARY (managing entity): Miralay Şefik Bey Sok. No: 6, Taksim, Beyoğlu – Istanbul
- Phone: 0212 249 95 65 / 0212 249 09 45
