Column of Constantine, Roman triumphal column in Fatih district, Istanbul, Turkey
The Column of Constantine is a monument built from large porphyry stone drums stacked and held together with metal bands. The structure stands in a busy part of the city center and shows signs of the repairs and changes made to it over many centuries.
The monument was raised around 330 CE to mark the founding of the new imperial capital. It survived earthquakes, fires, and wars, though it was rebuilt and repaired many times as the city changed through the centuries.
The column served as a gathering place where people from across the city met for public events and celebrations. Over time, it became woven into the daily rhythm of Constantinople and later Istanbul.
The site is easy to reach by tram, with a station nearby providing straightforward access to the area. It sits in the busy center of the old city, surrounded by other landmarks and shops, making it a natural stop while walking around.
The porphyry stone used to build this column was so precious in the ancient empire that it could only be used for imperial monuments. These stones came from a special quarry in Egypt and made the structure exceptional among all monuments of that era.
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