The Binbirdirek Cistern is also known as the "Cistern of Philoxenos". However, Bardill, 1997, has identified the "Cistern of Philoxenos" with the Bab-ı Ali Caddesi Cistern.
The cistern is 64 × 56.4 m in size and contains 224 columns. The columns are all topped with a simple, deep, rounded impost; this leads to the assumption that they were of recent manufacture (Crow et al., 2008, p. 138).
There is also a 'castellum aquae' (termination point for the Valens Waterway) at the Binbirdirek cistern (Crow et al., 2008, p. 118).
It has been connected to the name a certain Philoxenos who lived under Constantine I (hence the alternative name of "Cistern of Philoxenos") through the Patria of Constantinople (Patria, Text C, 3.1.91), however the brick stamps of this cistern indicate a construction date towards c. the middle of the 5th century-6th century (Müller-Wiener, 1977, p. 280). A decisive identification of the "Cistern of Philoxenos" remains problematic.
The cistern was used for silk spinning during the 16th century. In the 17th century, a palace was built on top of the cistern. It was resumed as a workplace for silk spinners during the 19th century, until it was turned into a market place and was eventually placed under the administration of a museum in the 20th century.
This cistern was excavated in 1911.
Today, it is a cultural centre/special venue.
