Visit the world famous Turkish Hippodrome square

Visit the world famous Turkish Hippodrome square

The historic Hippodrome Square used to take place horse racing events, ceremonial center ... Today it becomes the leading tourist attraction of Istanbul - Turkey.

About the history of Hippodrome square

Born in the 3rd century under the Byzantine Empire, at first it was a large square 450 meters long and 130 meters wide for horse racing, with a capacity of up to thousands of spectators. Besides, it was also used as a center of ceremonies, parades, parades and important trials of the city of Constantinople.

From 1453, the Ottoman Empire defeated Byzantine and seized the right to seize Istanbul, this place was renamed Sultanahmet. Because this square is located right in front of the famous exquisitely designed Sultan Ahmed Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Museum. Most of the early structures and structures were destroyed, the original horse track was flat and clean as well. 

hippodrome-4Photo: @ be.my_self_

Become a landscape park with cool green trees, a place to relax and visit is not only familiar to the people here. But also very attractive for tourists coming to this city. While watching the buildings and ancient Constantinople scene, while enjoying the cool Mediterranean air, taking a rest after visiting the Green Cathedral or nearby places. 

Attractions in the square area

Today, although the original architecture has been fading, Hippodrome Square is always vibrant day and night. This impressive place is the first destination in anyone's visit to the city of Istanbul when coming to this flying carpet country. Stroll around here to rest at the cafe to admire the whole surroundings with the peaceful atmosphere and impressive historical works left.

Theodosius stone pillars of Egypt

This work was built in 390 AD and is made entirely of pink granite, transported from Egypt. Before being brought back to Istanbul, this monolithic pillar is said to date from 1450 BC with a height of up to 30 meters. But during the transport it was damaged, so it was only 18 meters high, the bottom was supported. On it depicts the image of Greek Emperor Byzantine Teodosius I watching a horse race in this square. 

Solid pillar of stone - Serpentine

Serpentine Column is one of the famous monuments known to many people in Istanbul, this is also the highlight for the entire Hippodrome . Column with three entwined blue snakes is a amulet brought from Delphi Temple in Apollo. Built in 480 BC to commemorate the Greek army's victory over Persia, as well as the desire to protect the city from insect intrusion. 
At this point you can special point that their heads are gone. Only a single snake head remains, but was brought back to display inside the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. Although over time the color and shape have been worn out. However, this solid column still contains many mysteries that attract scientists as well as tourists when coming to the square. 

Constantinus stone pillar

This is also considered an important historical site of Istanbul that you should visit at Hippodrome Square . According to history books, it is not clear what king this stone column was built under, but by the time King Constantine VII was remodeled. The top part had a badge and a golden orb, but during the Fourth Crusade it was taken down and melted down. The spiritual purpose wanted the Constatine empire to decline and lose all its power and strength.

Fountains of Germany

Located in the middle of the square, the Foutain fountain of Germany, also known as the Kaiser. This is an ancient architectural work with a very nice design surrounded by stone pillars. Above the impressive green dome. You can come here to visit and check in or sit back and watch around and enjoy the relaxing breeze. 

Museum of Islamic and Art of Turkey

The destination is right next to Hippodrome Square for those who want to learn about the culture and history of the famous city of Istanbul from ancient times to present. Located right inside the Ibrahim Pasha Palace, this is one of the most important works of 16th century Ottoman architecture. The museum has a diverse and unique display with more than 40,000 different artifacts from the carpet. , manuscripts, wood, metallic glass, ceramic, ...

Hagia Sophia Mosque

This ancient church dating from 325, the Hagia Sophia is recognized as one of the greatest structures in the world. And it is also considered as the 8th wonder of the world, located close to Hippodrome Square. This mosque is top visited by tourists in Istanbul and around the world. From the exterior architecture to the interior decoration, all classic eye-catching colors. You can come here to check in and see first-hand the top artistic decorations.
Open space, spacious with famous attractions. This square deserves the first and ideal stopover for Turkey travel . Along learn, explore this place as well as the surrounding ancient works to fully understand the fascinating city of Istanbul. 

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