A Historic Landmark Turned Unauthorized Wellness Center
For years, a luxury hotel in the heart of Istanbul operated an exclusive wellness center within an ancient Byzantine cistern—without legal authorization. This underground reservoir, dating back 1,500 years and located near the iconic Hagia Sophia, was modified without permits to accommodate a modern spa, blending the grandeur of Byzantine history with massage oils and heated jacuzzis.
The Cultural and Historical Significance of Byzantine Cisterns
Byzantine cisterns were impressive feats of engineering, built as public infrastructure to ensure the water supply of Constantinople from the 4th century onward. These vast underground reservoirs stored and distributed water for both public and private use, playing a crucial role in the city’s survival. The affected cistern, part of the Sultanahmet archaeological zone, was intended to be preserved as a vital piece of cultural heritage.
An Opulent Spa Operating Without Permits
Carved into natural rock and supported by intricate columns, the cistern provided an atmospheric backdrop for the wellness center, which offered high-end services at premium prices. A Swedish massage started at €140 per person, with couples’ packages reaching up to €300. Despite the absence of necessary construction permits, the spa functioned for years without official intervention.
Authorities Step In After Complaints
The illegal conversion came to light following complaints from private citizens, prompting an inspection by Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism and local authorities. Officials discovered extensive modifications, including a 120cm-deep jacuzzi pool, massage rooms, saunas, a hammam, and a glass entrance—alterations that compromised the integrity of this protected archaeological site.
Resistance to Restoration Orders
Despite an official mandate requiring the removal of unauthorized structures within six months, the hotel’s owners ignored the directive. Instead, they continued operating and even sought tax exemption benefits in December. This defiance ultimately led to the temporary closure of the wellness center. Authorities have now requested approved restoration plans to reverse the structural changes and safeguard the historic site.
The Broader Issue of Heritage Exploitation
The incident, widely covered by Turkish media, highlights broader concerns about the commercialization and neglect of historical monuments. While this particular scandal may have come as a shock to many, it raises questions about long-standing regulatory oversight and the prioritization of tourism revenue over cultural preservation.
Complex Ownership and Delayed Action
The hotel involved in the controversy reportedly has around 60 co-owners, including both public institutions and private stakeholders. This fragmented ownership structure has been cited as a key reason for the delay in compliance with government directives. Furthermore, current rulings focus solely on removing modifications rather than permanently shutting down the business, fueling speculation that initial permissions were granted but later revoked due to public backlash.
The Legacy of Byzantine Cisterns
Istanbul’s Byzantine-era cisterns remain some of its most awe-inspiring architectural achievements. Among them, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayı) stands out as the largest and most famous, located just across from Hagia Sophia. Built in 532 AD by Emperor Justinian I, it spans 10,000 square meters and originally stored 78,000 cubic meters of water.
The Theodosius Cistern (Şerefiye Sarnıcı), another striking example, was constructed between 428 and 443 AD by Emperor Theodosius II. Renowned for its monolithic marble columns and sophisticated architectural details, it now serves as a historical attraction featuring advanced 360-degree projection technology for an immersive experience.
Similarly, the Cistern of Philoxenos (Binbirdirek Sarnıcı), built in the 5th century, is famed for its 224 towering marble columns. Once integral to the city’s water supply, it now functions as a public site, showcasing the engineering marvels of the Byzantine era.
Protecting Istanbul’s Heritage
The unauthorized conversion of a Byzantine cistern into a luxury spa underscores the ongoing struggle to balance cultural preservation with commercial interests. While efforts are underway to restore the site, the controversy highlights the importance of stricter regulations and increased vigilance in protecting Istanbul’s invaluable historical legacy.
As the city continues to evolve, ensuring that its ancient structures remain respected and preserved is crucial—not just for historical integrity, but for future generations to appreciate the grandeur of Byzantium’s architectural brilliance.
