Upon exiting the Basilica Cistern, still thoroughly enchanted by its splendor, we headed towards Sultanahmet Square. The walk itself seemed like a smooth shift from the enchanting, underground charm of the cistern to the vast openness of one of Istanbul’s most historic and lively public areas. Upon arrival, our tour guide started to unveil the deep and intricate history of this remarkable square.
Sultanahmet Square, frequently referred to as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, has been a vital element of the city's life for numerous centuries. In the Byzantine period, this location hosted the famous chariot races! An exciting, exhilarating spectacle that drew large crowds. The original oval form of the Hippodrome can still be seen in the square's layout today, although its splendor has faded over time. Throughout the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, this region was not merely a venue for athletics; it transformed into a platform for significant festivities, political assemblies, and civic announcements that influenced the city's history.
A key feature of Sultanahmet Square is the Obelisk of Theodosius. This impressive edifice, rising high amidst the contemporary commotion, holds an extraordinary narrative. Initially hewn in Egypt circa 1,500 BC under Pharaoh Thutmose III, it was brought to Constantinople in the 4th century AD by Emperor Theodosius I. The obelisk’s travel itself is astounding if you think about the logistical obstacles of transporting such a colossal stone across continents during a time without contemporary machinery. The hieroglyphs carved into its surface are astonishingly intact, narrating tales of its beginnings in Egypt and simultaneously serving as proof of the engineering skill of the Byzantine Empire.
While we stood there, absorbing the obelisk and the vibrant ambiance of the square, it was simple to envision the historical layers beneath us. The chariot wheels that once raced through the Hippodrome, the shouts of crowds that assembled for royal proclamations, and the serene instances of everyday life over the centuries.
After immersing ourselves in the tales of Sultanahmet Square, we proceeded to the last stop of the day: the Blue Mosque. However, that is certainly a tale for a different occasion.
