Byzantine chariot racing was a big deal. The rival Green and Blue teams were rather like street gangs linked to sectarian groups; a racing victory was an important societal event, and the teams often had a direct influence on public policy. In the tense atmosphere of 532 AD, during which Emperor Justinian was already facing a tax crisis, the two teams joined forces against the Emperor in protest at the imprisonment of two of their members: the ensuing Nika riots - ‘Nika!’ was the the rioters’ cry for victory - saw imperial forces massacre around 30,000 protesters in the Hippodrome.
Originally, the arena comprised two surrounding galleries, a central spina and a semicircular sphendone (some of which can be seen today) at one end. Several rows of seats and columns were uncovered during demolition in front of the Blue Mosque in 1993; it is possible that much more of the Hippodrome still remains beneath the park of Sultanahmet.
Many bronze statues, rich tapestries and purple hangings once decorated the Hippodrome, including four magnificent gilt horses above the Hippodrome Boxes, which are now on view in Venice. Along the length of the Hippodrome’s spina, four monuments are still visible in the modern square. The extraordinary bronze Serpent Column is all that remains of a ‘trophy’ dedicated to Apollo at Delphi, installed by Constantine in the 5th century. The column is 8 metres high and around 2,500 years old; originally it held a tripod and golden bowl supported by three serpent heads. The column has a long history of literary and artistic reference, and Ottoman miniatures show that the heads were still intact until the 17th century.
Emperor Theodosius added the even older pink granite Obelisk of Thutmose III, taken from Luxor in Egypt. It has survived nearly 3,500 years and is in rather better condition than the Serpent Column. Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitus built another obelisk at the opposite end of the spina in the 10th century: once covered in bronze plaques, only the stone ‘walled obelisk’ core remains. Also surviving are the bases of several triumphal statues of the famed charioteer Porphyrios.
Although much of its original structure is now missing, Sultanahmet Square largely follows the Hippodrome’s original ground plan: with a bit of imagination you can still get a taste of Byzantine majesty, and hear the roar of 100,000 spectators.
In a city of opulent, historical buildings, the Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul’s finest relics of Ottoman history and architecture. Built by Sultan Mehmed II (the Conqueror) in 1459, shortly after his conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is a sprawling complex with four main courtyards and numerous smaller buildings, including pavilions, mosques, lush gardens and the beautiful Hagia Irene church. Navigating the immense site can be overwhelming, so having a knowledgeable local guide take you through a carefully curated selection of the most important parts ensures you make the most of your time in the palace and gain a deeper understanding of its historical and architectural significance.
On your private tour, you will:
Once the residence of countless Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century, the Topkapi Palace has been an operating museum since the early 20th century and a must-visit for anyone travelling to Istanbul. With an elaborate structure and hundreds of rooms – each of which served a different purpose - the museum and its remarkable contents are best explored with a private guide.
Your Ottoman adventure will begin centrally located meeting point with tickets procured ahead of time to allow seamless entry into the palace. After a short scenic stroll through the streets of Sultanahmet district, also home to the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome of Constantinople, you will arrive at your destination, where your guide can give you an introduction to the palace and point out interesting features of the exterior.
Once inside, you will dive straight into the rich history and intricate details of the palace. As you wander through its sprawling halls and courtyards, your guide will bring the stories of its illustrious inhabitants to life, giving you a crash course in the lives and legacy of the Ottoman sultans. You will have the chance to visit the Imperial Harem, the living quarters of the imperial family where you can get a sense of a secluded world of intrigue and luxury where a whole host of rituals and ceremonies took place. You will marvel at the dazzling decor, from exquisite tilework to priceless artefacts, and uncover the stories of the sultan, his mother, his wives, and his children. In addition to exploring the Harem, you will delve deeper into the palace’s treasures as you pass through the Circumcision Room, the charming Library of Ahmed III, and the splendid Apartments of the Queen Mother. Each space offers unique insights into the cultural and political significance of the Ottoman court.
As the tour concludes, you will step outside to the stunning Hagia Sofia Mansions, where you’re free to continue your exploration or unwind at your leisure. Once you say goodbye to your guide, you will be left with a deep appreciation for the marvels of the Ottoman Empire, having enjoyed a mesmerizing glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era.
Istanbul is a unique and enthralling city, a bridge between Europe and Asia where a historic crossroads of civilisations meets a bustling modern metropolis. Making your way through its myriad of incredible monuments can be overwhelming, so embarking on a comprehensive walking tour of Istanbul's highlights is a wonderful way to make the most of your time there and discover what makes the city tick in the company of a knowledgeable private guide.
On your private half-day tour, you will:
In this amazing private half-day highlights tour of Istanbul, you will have the chance to be fully immersed in the history and culture of this great city. Your tour will begin in the spectacular Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, where you will get acquainted with your guide and take in what was once the bustling centre of Byzantine social and political life. Your guide will bring the history of this ancient chariot-racing arena to life as you marvel at its enduring monuments, including the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column, which bear witness to centuries of Istanbul's heritage.
You will step inside one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul: the breathtaking Blue Mosque. An architectural masterpiece renowned for its myriad domes, six minarets and the stunning blue Iznik tiles that inspired its name. You will learn about its historical and religious significance while admiring the intricate details of its serene interior. Later, you can follow in the footsteps of emperors and sultans as you explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. This iconic landmark, which has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, is a true marvel of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s multicultural legacy. Your expert guide will talk you through the fascinating history of the building, as well as the significance of the iconography and art you will find there.
Upon leaving the Hagia Sophia, you make your way to Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. As you navigate its labyrinthine alleys, your guide will reveal some of the secrets of Turkish trade as your guide, introducing you to local artisans and their exquisite craftsmanship. You’ll have the chance to peek into one of the city's ancient Hans, traditional trading inns that once buzzed with the activity of merchants and travellers and indulge in a feast for the sense in the vibrant Spice Market, where the air is filled with the enticing aroma of spices and sweet Turkish delights.
Your tour will conclude at the lively Eminönü Square, where you'll take in the stunning view of the Galata Tower, an icon of Istanbul’s skyline. By the time you say goodbye to your guide, you’ll have enjoyed an immersive experience of Istanbul's highlights, blending its monumental history with vibrant modern-day culture.
Please note: The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are religious places of worship, so please dress respectfully. Shoulders and legs must be covered, and head coverings are available at the mosque entrance for free. You will also be given a bag at entry in which to put your shoes.
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