The mystery of the Basilica Cistern Medusa Heads | A deep dive into their origins & history

Basilica Cistern has 336 columns supporting the water reserve. Two of these columns have Medusa's heads at their bases. One of the Gorgon monster’s heads is positioned sideways while the other is placed upside down. Here are a few reasons why these heads have become quite popular:

• Mystical charm: It is not known why the Medusa heads inside the Basilica Cistern are positioned upside down and sideways, however, their angles create an eerie atmosphere, which adds to the overall charm of the underground cistern. 
  
• Ancient Greek relics: The Medusa heads are one of the few surviving examples of ancient Greek sculpture in Istanbul, and they are unlike anything else you will see in the city.
  
• Stunning visual experience: The dimly lit cistern with its rows of columns and reflections on the water creates a stunning visual experience that is truly unforgettable. The Medusa heads add to the beauty of this ancient site.

The Medusa heads in the cistern have become one of the most famous symbols of the Basilica Cistern, and there are various theories about their origin. Some of the interesting ones include:

• One theory suggests that the Medusa heads were taken from an old temple in Greece or Rome and placed in the cistern as a symbol of Christianity.
  
• Another idea is that the Medusa heads were added to the cistern to honor the mythological figure of Medusa from ancient Greek stories.
  
• A third idea is that the Medusa heads were made specifically for the Basilica Cistern to protect the water and keep it safe and clean.
  
• Yet another theory suggests that the Medusa heads were put in the cistern just for decoration and to make it more mysterious.