The Hippodrome

The Hippodrome

The Hippodrome, located at the heart of Byzantine Constantinople, was a significant public space for various civil activities, including propaganda, rebellions, and fights. Over time, it became better known as a sports facility where chariot races were held. Eventually, horse racing became more popular here, and the Ottomans used it as a horse racing track.

The Hippodrome

There are several monuments around the Hippodrome area. One of the most notable is the Egyptian Obelisk, which was originally constructed by Pharaoh Tutmosis III between 1549-1503 BC. It was 200 feet high and weighed 800 tons, but during transport from Egypt to Constantinople, it broke into three pieces, and only the top part survived. It was erected in 390 AD during the reign of Theodosius I, and the marble base features sculptured reliefs depicting the Emperor and his family watching a chariot race. The obelisk, made of pink granite, depicts Pharaoh Tutmosis III with the Sun God Amon Ra.

Another monument in the Hippodrome is a column made from three bronze serpents intertwined. It was brought over from the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece.

The third monument is "Colossus" or "The Column of Constantine," which appears more eroded than the Obelisk. Researchers believe its purpose is similar to that of the Egyptian Obelisk.

The last monument in the Hippodrome Area is the German Fountain, also known as the "Fountain of Kaiser Wilhelm II." It is an octagonal building with taps around it, constructed in 1898. There are lovely mosaics inside that depict the signatures of Emperor William II and Sultan Abdulhamit II.