Journey to the Past
Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern
History
The construction of the water cistern started in 1816 and was completed in 1821. The cistern, which was brought to life with the initiative of the governor of Cyprus of the period, also known as Es-Seyyid Mehmed Emin Efendi, provided water to Kyrenia and its surroundings for many years.
The water cistern, whose entrance consists of semi-cylindrical stones, is one of the many works that Seyyid Emin Efendi brought to Cyprus. The construction of Hala Sultan Mosque and Tekke was also completed during Emin Efendi’s reign.
Location
Where is Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern?
Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern is located in Kyrenia, the tourist center of Cyprus. The cistern is on Sertaç Sevim Kalebey Street, within walking distance of Kyrenia Harbor and Aga Cafer Pasha Mosque. You can easily find the cistern if you walk towards the south of the harbor area.
Many of the places to visit in Kyrenia are located around Kyrenia Harbor. After visiting Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern, you can also walk to Kyrenia Harbor, St. Andrew Church, Sunken Ship Museum and Aga Cafer Pasha Mosque.
Transportation
How to get to Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern?
If you want to visit this water reservoir built with solid stones, you must first reach the Ancient Kyrenia Harbor area. You can easily reach this location, which is frequented by yachts and boats in Kyrenia, by public transportation (bus, dolmus) or taxi. Around Kyrenia Harbor, there are stylish restaurants where you can eat and dozens of hotels where you can stay.
You have several options to reach Kyrenia. If you are coming from Nicosia, you can reach Kyrenia after a 45-minute drive by road. However, you can enter Cyprus via Kyrenia Port or Nicosia Airport.
Visit Information
Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern Visiting Hours and Fee
The water cistern is a historical artifact exhibited in the open air. For this reason, there is no entrance fee or visiting hours. However, if you want to photograph the cistern, we recommend that you prefer daylight hours.
Seyyid Emin Efendi Water Cistern Photos
Plan your Kyrenia Travel Route
Places to visit in Kyrenia
Home to the island’s most luxurious restaurants, bars and casinos, Kyrenia is full of historical and touristic attractions. Many civilizations, including the Byzantines, Lusignans, Venetians and the Ottoman Empire, have left artifacts here.
