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Tourists gather around the ancient Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius at Istanbul's Sultanahmet Square on a clear day.

Hippodrome, Istanbul

Address: Sultan Ahmet, Sultanahmet Meydanı No:2, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey.

The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now known as Sultanahmet Square, was once the heart of Byzantine social life. Built in the 3rd century by Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Constantine the Great, it hosted chariot races, political events, and public ceremonies. Though much of its original structure has vanished, remnants like the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and the Walled Obelisk still stand. Today, the area serves as a historical park, offering a glimpse into Istanbul’s storied past.