Hippodrome

Hippodrome

The Hippodrome, which was built in the 2nd. century AD, but was restored in the 4th. century AD and remains to this day, is located on Sultanahmet (Blue) Square. In fact, the story of the Hippodrome is based on the fact that Emperor Septimus Severus took Istanbul from Byzantium. When Severus took Istanbul from Byzantium, he reconstructed the city that was devastated during the war in order to keep the people there. In addition, he also built a new Hippodrome. The new Hippodrome he built was built on the basis of the Circus Maximus Hippodrome located in Italy. According to estimates, it was started in 196 AD and finished in 203. Wild animals were also fought at the Hippodrome, where the famous gladiatorial battles were also held. In order for these wild animals not to attack the arriving spectators, large ditches were dug between the tribune and the arena. At first, the Hippodrome, where an estimated 60,000 people could come at the same time, was expanded in the time of Constantine the Great, and 100,000 people could come at the same time. The Emperor used to watch all the events held at that time from the area where everything called “Kathisma” could be easily seen. There's also a secret tunnel under Kathisma. The Emperor could easily escape through this tunnel if necessary. Only Gladiator battles, wild animal battles, and car races are not held at the Hippodrome. At the same time, executions were carried out here in front of the entire public. Konstantin also brought quite important works to the Hippodrome. But in 1204, during the Crusades, these artifacts were looted. From the 15th. century, the Hippodrome has become a complete ruin. When the Blue Mosque was built in 1609, the only javelin was played at the Hippodrome located on the same square. All the artifacts were stolen while the Hippodrome and those in it were burned, so only the Obelisk is left.

What Remains of the Hippodrome From The Past to The Present

ü  Obelisk: The Obelisk is located right in the middle of the Hippodrome. In fact, this stone, made in 1450 BC for Pharaoh III. Thutmosis was brought to the Hippodrome at the request of Emperor Theodosius in 390 AD. Hieroglyphic articles on the Obelisk, made of marble and granite, can also be read today.

ü  Serpent Column: It was built in memory of the defeat of the Persians by the Greeks in 478 BC and erected in the Temple of Apollo. The Serpent Column, which is said to have been made by melting the shields used by the Persians in battle, was brought to the Hippodrome by Constantine in 330 AD.

ü  Knitted Obelisk: It is believed that it was built by Constantine or I. Theodosius. It was covered with bronze by VII. Constantine Porphyrogenitus in 10th. century. However,  13th. century during the Latin Crusaders, the soldiers looted the cover of  Knitted Obelisk and used to mint money.