They turned a 1500-year-old cistern into a massage parlor! Statement from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism

A 1500-year-old historical cistern located in the Cankurtaran neighborhood of Istanbul's Fatih district has been turned into a massage parlor. Following the images that drew backlash, a statement was issued by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Regarding the historical structure, which is known to be located in an urban archaeological site and is a first-group immovable cultural asset requiring protection, the following statement was made on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's social media account:

"Upon complaints that the cistern in question was being used as a pool by a hotel business, the necessary actions and procedures were immediately initiated by the relevant Regional Conservation Board Directorate, and with the Board decision dated 15.11.2022, it was decided that the irregularities in the cistern and cellar be removed within 6 months under the supervision of the relevant administration. Following the failure to remove the unauthorized applications in question, a criminal complaint was filed with the Board decision dated 26.12.2023, and it was decided that the irregularities be rectified and that the survey, restitution, and restoration projects be submitted. Subsequently, a request for tax exemption regarding the registered immovable was submitted by the relevant parties, and with the Board decision dated 27.11.2024, the said request was not deemed appropriate as the irregularities in the immovable had not been rectified."