VIRTUAL ISTANBUL HERITAGE(S)
Abstract
In ancient times, fresh water was gathered and stored in various ways, including cisterns, underground structures that served as water reservoirs for many years. Today, cisterns globally have lost their main function; however, they still exist and are preserved as historic sites. An intriguing phenomenon found within cisterns is their acoustic environment, as they exhibit atypical reverb times, causing sounds to linger for a long time. This is caused by residual wall dampness, which affects the sonic reflections within the space. Pauline Oliveros extensively explored cisterns as acoustic spaces; this research builds on her work with a focus on cisterns in Islamic Cairo, which follow the Islamic structure of water reservoirs. This paper investigates these spaces and addresses historical, acoustic, and artistic literature on cisterns and Sabils, and water-related chants and musical expressions. It experiments with the interaction between water sounds and chants within an environment shaped by the absence of water. The study aimed to employ on-ground empirical practice as a qualitative method that reintegrates the sounds of flowing water and melodies into the space through artistic performances using pre-recorded audio.
Abla Abd El Naby is a media researcher, scholar, and experimental artist who uses media practices as a form of empirical learning. She is motivated to gain and share knowledge within educational and creative settings. She has been in academia for more than ten years and pursued a master’s degree in media design, focusing on acoustic ecology. She actively participates in the local and international art scenes and academic environments. Her work involves experimental audiovisuals, text, and performance art.