Anastasian Wall, Fortified line in Turkey
The Anastasian Wall, also called the Long Walls of Thrace, is a Byzantine fortified line that stretches across the region for many kilometers. The structure was built primarily from brick and originally stood about 5 meters (16 feet) tall with a thickness of 3.3 meters (11 feet).
Emperor Anastasius I ordered its construction in the 5th century to shield Constantinople from invasions coming from the north. Over the following centuries, it was repeatedly reinforced and maintained, though it gradually lost strategic importance as circumstances changed.
The wall served as Constantinople's main defense line against threats from the north and shaped how the city controlled its surroundings. Archaeological work reveals the structure's central role in the empire's security strategy.
Today, only scattered sections of the wall remain visible and accessible in several locations near Istanbul. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and some parts are heavily damaged.
Though only fragments remain today, the surviving sections reveal the skilled craftsmanship of ancient builders in their brick construction techniques. This defensive line stretched approximately 56 kilometers, making it one of the longest fortification systems of its era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
