Aspar Sarnıcı, Çukurbostan

Aspar Sarnıcı, Çukurbostan is a fascinating historical monument in Istanbul's Balat district. This Byzantine cistern from the Late Antique period once served as a water reservoir and was transformed into a 'sunken garden' (çukurbostan) during Ottoman times.

Today, this unique site combines history with recreation - after a renovation in 2012, it became a park with playgrounds, sports fields and exercise equipment. The high walls surrounding the site are a reminder of its rich past.

It's an ideal place for history buffs and those seeking a moment of relaxation among Istanbul's sights.