1,500-year-old cistern near Hagia Sophia turned into modern spa, prompting authorities to intervene
A 1,500-year-old cistern near Hagia Sophia in Istanbul was being used illegally as a massage parlor, Turkish hammam, and pool in modern times. (Photo via Türkiye daily)
A luxurious spa operating under the name “Navitas Spa Sarnic” inside a 1,500-year-old historic cistern beneath the world-renowned five-star Hilton Hotel near Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque has been shut down.
The cistern, originally an ancient water storage facility, had been controversially repurposed as a massage and jacuzzi parlor, sparking public outcry and legal action.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in response to mounting complaints, initiated investigations into the unauthorized use of the protected historical structure. It was revealed that the spa facility had made illegal additions, altering the original architecture of the cistern.
Illegal additions and unapproved transformations
The historic cistern, located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district within an urban archaeological site, was found to be operating outside legal regulations. The Navitas Spa Sarnic website openly promoted its location inside a 1500-year-old cistern, offering services such as Swedish, aromatherapy, and hot stone massages, along with jacuzzi experiences.
However, an investigation revealed that unauthorized modifications, including glass extensions, experience pools, and additional spa rooms, had been added without proper approvals.
The illegal alterations were found to violate conservation laws designed to protect Türkiye’s cultural heritage.
Ministry of Culture and Tourism moves to restore historical integrity
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism first issued a directive in 2022, ordering the removal of unauthorized structures within six months.
However, the spa continued operations, ignoring the directive. In December 2023, the Ministry filed a formal complaint, demanding the restoration of the cistern to its original state.
Fatih Municipality, tasked with enforcing heritage preservation regulations, requested a detailed report outlining the violations and necessary restoration steps.
A January 2025 inspection confirmed the presence of unauthorized construction within the historic cistern, including private massage rooms, saunas, and a jacuzzi pool.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, the spa sought tax exemptions in November 2024, a request that was denied because of its non-compliance with conservation laws.
Authorities seal off illegal spa operation
Following continued non-compliance, Fatih Municipality’s Building Control Directorate intervened and officially sealed off the illegal operation.
Authorities stated that the structure must be fully restored in line with approved restoration plans before any further action could be considered.
