Beneath Istanbul’s historic city streets lies the Basilica Cistern, a vast Byzantine-era water reservoir carved from stone and supported by 336 marble columns. Built around 532 AD under Emperor Justinian I, it once supplied the Great Palace and surrounding districts with water, a testament to the engineering prowess of Constantinople. The ambient hush, cool air, and soft glow from underwater lights give the chamber an otherworldly atmosphere where reflections ripple across the mirrored water. This subterranean sanctuary has long inspired filmmakers, with its enigmatic corridors and towering columns lending a sense of timeless intrigue to scenes set in Istanbul.

Istanbul’s Eminonu Square sits at a historic crossroads where ancient markets meet the Bosphorus ferry piers, a pulse of city life that has driven trade for centuries. The area links the spice-laden Grand Bazaar with waterfront promenades, mosques, and bustling docks, all framed by minarets and the shimmer of the sea. Here history unfolds in layers—from Byzantine foundations to Ottoman commerce—creating a vibrant atmosphere of color, scent, and sound. The square remains a cinematic touchstone, inviting visitors to step into Istanbul’s living story.

Istanbul’s bazaars and mosques appear in "From Russia with Love" and "Skyfall"; Bond navigates the Grand Bazaar, the Basilica Cistern and other historic sites.