Free Basilica Cistern Photo

Basilica Cistern is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. Commissioned by Emperor Justinian and built in 532, it is largest surviving Byzantine cistern in Istanbul. Basilica Cistern is located in Sultanahmet to the southwest of Hagia Sophia. It was constructed using 336 columns, many reclaimed from ruined temples, featuring fine carved capitals. Two Medusa heads, used as column supports, are located in northwest corner of the cistern. Originally located under the Stoa Basilica, the cistern was designed to service the Great Palace and surrounding buildings with fresh water. The cistern was fed by 20 kilometers of aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea.

• Photography by Jason B Graham
• Basilica Cistern
• Sultanahmet | Istanbul, Turkey
• 1890 × 1260 pixels
• Free download for personal, non-commercial use

Alphonse de Lamartine wrote, “If one had but a single glance to give the world, one should gaze on Istanbul.” Istanbul, once known as Constantinople, is the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia. Over the last 2000 years, it has also been the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Divided by the Bosphorus Strait, today Istanbul is home to over 15 million residents. Istanbul is a study of contrast: ancient and modern; conservative and progressive; chaotic and relaxed. With a rich history and warm culture, it is one of the most inspiring cities in the world.

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I partner with innovators, creators and brands of all sizes to create and curate beauty. I have collaborated with ambitious entrepreneurs, talented artisans and prestigious companies. In each collaboration, we have a shared a passion for authenticity, creativity and results.

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I have years of experience in producing custom photography for consumer products, marketing, and press releases. Offering a full range of photographic services, specialties include product and food photography. Inclusive of art direction, styling, editing & retouch, we create print and web-ready images for professional or personal use.

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