The Hippodrome The Hippodrome, situated in the center of Byzantine Constantinople, served as an important venue for numerous public events such as political demonstrations, uprisings, and combats. Over the years, it gained fame primarily as a sports arena hosting chariot racing. Later on, horse racing became the dominant sport here, with the Ottomans utilizing the space as an official horse racing track. Several monuments surround the Hippodrome area, with one of the most remarkable being the Egyptian Obelisk. Originally crafted by Pharaoh Tutmosis III between 1549 and 1503 BC, this obelisk stood 200 feet tall and weighed around 800 tons. However, during its transport from Egypt to Constantinople, it broke into three sections, and only the top portion remained intact. It was re-erected in 390 AD under the rule of Theodosius I. The marble base is adorned with carved reliefs showing the Emperor and his family observing a chariot race. Made from pink granite, the obelisk features Pharaoh Tutmosis III alongside the Sun God Amon Ra. Another notable monument at the Hippodrome is a column composed of three intertwined bronze serpents. This piece was transported from the Temple of Apollo located in Delphi, Greece. The third notable monument is the "Colossus", also referred to as the "Column of Constantine", which shows more signs of weathering compared to the Obelisk. Scholars think its function was similar to that of the Egyptian Obelisk. The final monument in the Hippodrome area is the German Fountain, sometimes called the "Fountain of Kaiser Wilhelm II". This octagonal structure, built in 1898, features water taps around it. Inside, you can admire beautiful mosaics that include the signatures of Emperor William II and Sultan Abdulhamit II. If you have any questions or would like more details about The Hippodrome, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or simply send us a message on Whatsapp, and we will get back to you promptly.