Hippodrome of Constantinople, Ancient racing arena in Sultanahmet Square, Turkey.
The Hippodrome of Constantinople is an ancient racing track in the heart of Istanbul that once held tens of thousands of spectators and stretches about 450 meters long. Today visitors can still see three notable ancient monuments at the site: the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column from Greece, and Constantine's stone obelisk.
Roman Emperor Septimius Severus began construction around 203 CE, but the greatest development came under Constantine I, who expanded the venue when establishing Constantinople as the capital around 330 CE. This expansion made it one of the most important public gathering places in the new empire's center.
Chariot races held here featured two rival teams, the Blues and the Greens, who represented different social groups within Byzantine society. These competitions were more than sport; they reflected the tensions and loyalties that shaped urban life.
The site is located in a central area and easily accessible on foot; visitors should allow time to explore the different monuments carefully. The best times to visit are early in the day or later in the afternoon when fewer tourists are present.
The site served not only for sporting competitions but also as a place for public executions, celebrations, and political gatherings during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. This multiple use made it a center of power and public life in the city.
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