Sultanahmet Square

About Sultanahmet Square

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What people say

"Sultanahmet Meydanı (Sultanahmet Square) is a historic square in Istanbul, Turkey. It is located in the Fatih district, on the site of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople. The square is home to some of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapı Palace. The Hippodrome of Constantinople was built in the 4th century AD by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. It was a large, U-shaped arena that was used for chariot races and other public events. The Hippodrome was a popular gathering place for the people of Constantinople, and it was often the scene of political and religious demonstrations. The Hippodrome fell into disuse after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The square was used as a market and a military parade ground. In the 19th century, the Ottoman government began to restore the square and its monuments. The Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum in 1934, and the Blue Mosque was reopened for worship in 1935."
Katie Howerton
"Istanbul is the only city in the world that lives on two continents, and while the majority of my time there was spent in Asia, the European side is where you’ll find the vast majority of tourist traps and historic sites. The Hagia Sophia (or Ayasofya) is most iconic and my personal favorite, but a trip to the Sultanahmet Square puts you within throwing distance of not only this but also the Blue Mosque (AKA Sultanahmet), Topkapi Palace, the cisterns, and a handful of amazing museums. You can find discounted combination tickets to let you inside multiple sites, but even just a stroll of the exteriors will astound you."
"Sultanahmet Square, located at the heart of Istanbul's historic district, is a significant public space surrounded by some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Dominated by the impressive Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, the square serves as a central hub for both locals and tourists. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with street vendors, cafes, and a constant flow of visitors exploring the nearby historical sites. Sultanahmet Square is not only a starting point for exploring Istanbul's rich history but also a gathering place where people can immerse themselves in the city's cultural and architectural wonders."

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