Right in the center of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet Square lies a space steeped in thousands of years of history — the Hippodrome of Constantinople. Once the social and sporting hub of the Byzantine Empire, this ancient arena witnessed imperial ceremonies, political protests, fierce chariot races, and dramatic public spectacles. Today, while only remnants of its grandeur remain, the Hippodrome continues to echo the city’s layered past and remains one of the most important historical sites in Istanbul.
A Glorious Past
Originally built in the 3rd century AD by Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Constantine the Great in the 4th century, the Hippodrome became a centerpiece of Byzantine public life. At its peak, it could hold up to 100,000 spectators.
The structure featured a U-shaped track surrounded by seating tiers and an elongated central barrier (spina) decorated with statues, monuments, and obelisks brought from across the empire. It wasn’t just a racetrack — it was a powerful symbol of imperial authority and public unity.
What Remains Today
Although the original structure was mostly lost over time, several important monuments remain in the square:
The Egyptian Obelisk
This ancient pink granite obelisk, originally from the Temple of Karnak in Luxor, was erected by Theodosius I in the 4th century. It’s one of the oldest and best-preserved artifacts in Istanbul.
The Serpent Column
Brought from Delphi, Greece, this bronze column was created to commemorate the Greek victory over the Persians in the 5th century BC. Its spiraling form still stands, though the serpent heads have been lost.
The Walled Obelisk
A stone-built obelisk of unknown origin, thought to have been originally covered in gilded bronze plaques. It suffered damage over the centuries but remains an imposing presence.
German Fountain
A later addition, this ornate fountain was gifted by German Emperor Wilhelm II in 1898 and reflects 19th-century European design amid ancient surroundings.
Location and How to Visit
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Fatih, Istanbul
District: Sultanahmet (Old City)
Getting There:
By Tram: Take the T1 tram line to “Sultanahmet” station. The square is directly accessible from there.
By Bus or Walking: Easy access from nearby historical sites like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.
Admission: Free and open to the public year-round.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the atmosphere with fewer tourists.
What’s Nearby?
Blue Mosque: Just steps away from the Hippodrome, one of Istanbul’s most famous mosques.
Hagia Sophia: A short walk across Sultanahmet Square; a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
Basilica Cistern: A mysterious underground marvel located nearby.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum: Facing the Hippodrome, located in the historic Ibrahim Pasha Palace.
Topkapi Palace: A 10-minute walk, offering a deep dive into Ottoman imperial life.
Why Visit the Hippodrome?
Walk Through Ancient History: Stand where emperors once greeted crowds and chariots thundered by.
Free and Central: It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding sites to visit in Istanbul.
Surrounded by Landmarks: Located between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia — perfect for combining with other visits.
Photo Opportunities: Great for capturing monuments with minimal effort and stunning light during golden hour.
The Hippodrome of Constantinople may not look like the grand arena it once was, but its spirit lives on in the stones, monuments, and stories that still captivate visitors from around the world. A must-see for history lovers walking through Istanbul’s old heart.
