Hippodrome of Constantinople
Hippodrome of Constantinople, Ancient racing arena in Sultanahmet Square, Turkey.
The rectangular racing track spans 450 meters in length and 130 meters in width, featuring grand stands that once accommodated 40,000 spectators.
Emperor Septimius Severus initiated the construction in 203 CE, while Constantine I expanded the structure when establishing Constantinople as the capital in 330 CE.
The arena hosted chariot races between two main teams, the Blues and Greens, which represented different social and political groups in Byzantine society.
Three ancient monuments remain at the site: the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column from Greece, and the stone-built Constantine Obelisk.
The Hippodrome functioned as the primary location for public executions, celebrations, and political demonstrations throughout the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Location: Fatih
Architectural style: Byzantine architecture, Ottoman architecture
Part of: Sultanahmet Square
GPS coordinates: 41.00639,28.97556
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:03
Stairs serve not only to overcome elevation changes but often rank among the notable structures of their cities. The Spanish Steps in Rome with its 135 steps has connected two districts since 1725 and became a meeting point for locals and visitors. In Montmartre, 222 steps lead to the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, while Jacob's Ladder on Saint Helena with 699 steps forms one of the longest straight stairways in the world. The selection includes various construction types: spiral staircases in medieval towers, rock-carved ascents to temples and fortresses, and modern outdoor stairs made of concrete and steel. Some stairs were built for practical reasons like the steps to Table Mountain in Cape Town, others as part of religious sites like the stairs to the Golden Rock in Myanmar. Each staircase tells the story of the engineering skills of its era and the people who use it daily.
These squares in Asia feature historical monuments, cultural centers and architectural landmarks. The locations serve as gathering points for markets, celebrations and social meetings. Visitors experience traditional games, local cuisine and regional festivals.
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