The Square and Monuments
Hippodrome Square Sultanahmet
Hippodrome Square Sultanahmet - Istanbul, Turkey
Hippodrome Square Sultanahmet is a modern open space on the site of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople in the historic center of Istanbul, between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The square is located in the Fatih district, in the Sultanahmet quarter, and is completely pedestrian-only.
Construction of the hippodrome began around 203 AD under Emperor Septimius Severus, and was significantly expanded under Constantine the Great to become part of the new capital. In 330 AD, celebrations were held here to mark the dedication of the city. The hippodrome held tens of thousands of spectators and served as the main arena of public life - from chariot races and equestrian contests to ceremonies and imperial proclamations. In 532 AD, the Nika revolt began here.
Fragments of the ancient complex have survived - parts of the southern semicircular section - sphendones - and underground structures. On the longitudinal axis of the former arena stand three monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius - an ancient Egyptian monolith of Pharaoh Thutmose III, erected in 390; the bronze Serpent Column from Delphi; and the Obelisk of Constantine Porphyrogenitus of the 10th century. The northern part of the square is marked by the German Fountain, opened in 1901.
The square is open around the clock, and admission is free. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the historic center and a gateway for walks around Sultanahmet.
Show More
Show Less
Hippodrome Square Sultanahmet is a modern open space on the site of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople in the historic center of Istanbul, between the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The square is located in the Fatih district, in the Sultanahmet quarter, and is completely pedestrian-only.
Construction of the hippodrome began around 203 AD under Emperor Septimius Severus, and was significantly expanded under Constantine the Great to become part of the new capital. In 330 AD, celebrations were held here to mark the dedication of the city. The hippodrome held tens of thousands of spectators and served as the main arena of public life - from chariot races and equestrian contests to ceremonies and imperial proclamations. In 532 AD, the Nika revolt began here.
Fragments of the ancient complex have survived - parts of the southern semicircular section - sphendones - and underground structures. On the longitudinal axis of the former arena stand three monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius - an ancient Egyptian monolith of Pharaoh Thutmose III, erected in 390; the bronze Serpent Column from Delphi; and the Obelisk of Constantine Porphyrogenitus of the 10th century. The northern part of the square is marked by the German Fountain, opened in 1901.
The square is open around the clock, and admission is free. It is a convenient starting point for exploring the historic center and a gateway for walks around Sultanahmet.
Start from the German Fountain and head south along the arena.
Walk around Hippodrome Square Sultanahmet: what to see
Begin your route at the German Fountain on the northern edge and move south along the axis of the former arena. On the cobbles it's easy to imagine the oval track, and the perspective is closed by the southern sphendone - the brick semi-circular retaining wall of the stands.
At the Egyptian obelisk pay attention to the reliefs on the pedestal depicting the imperial court and spectators. Nearby stands the ancient Greek Serpent Column - only fragments of its three heads remain, one of which is kept in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. The stone-clad obelisk today lacks its gilded plates, but the mounting marks are clearly visible.
On the west side of the square is Ibrahim Pasha Palace - now the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum. Within a few minutes' walk are the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern.
The best time for a walk is early morning or evening. The easiest way to get there is by T1 tram to Sultanahmet station, from which the square is a 2-3 minute walk.
Popular Tours
Best tours and travel experiences across the continent
Guided tours, popular attractions, and top-rated hotels across the continent
