Sultanahmet Square

Overview

Sultanahmet Square is the historic heart of old Istanbul, built on the site of the ancient Roman Hippodrome where chariot races drew 100,000 spectators. Today it's the open-air plaza between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Highlights

• Obelisk of Theodosius: A 3,500-year-old Egyptian granite obelisk brought from Luxor in 390 AD.
• Serpent Column: A bronze column from 479 BC, originally at Delphi, one of the oldest surviving ancient Greek monuments.
• German Fountain: An ornate domed fountain gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II in 1901.

History

The Hippodrome was the center of Byzantine public life for over 1,000 years. The devastating Nika Riots of 532 AD began here, nearly toppling Emperor Justinian. After the Ottoman conquest, the Hippodrome was used for public festivals.

Visitor Tips

• Free and Open: The square is always accessible and free to explore.
• Central Location: An ideal starting point for visiting Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.