Column of Constantine Istanbul
A monumental Roman column, once the 'center of the world,' now a stoic testament to Istanbul's ancient imperial past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Column of Constantine Istanbul
Best Time
Beat the crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Roman column, once the 'center of the world,' now a stoic testament to Istanbul's ancient imperial past.
"This column is a significant historical marker, offering a glimpse into Istanbul's Roman and Byzantine past."
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Explore the area around the Column of Constantine on foot to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere .
💳 Use Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries. Load it up for easy transit .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Column of Constantine
Fatih District
A monumental Roman column, once topped with a bronze statue, now a testament to Istanbul's layered history.

The Milyon Stone
Near the Column of Constantine
The ancient 'center of the world' marker, a remnant of Roman imperial measurements and ambition.

Historical Context
Surrounding area
Understand its Roman and Byzantine past, from Novaroma to Constantinople, the heart of empires.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Istanbul's Transport
Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Explore the area around the Column of Constantine on foot to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere.
💳 Use Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries. Load it up for easy transit.
🚌 Airport Coach is Key
Havaist or Havabus coaches offer a cheap and efficient way to reach the city from Istanbul Airport.
🧐 Look for Inscriptions
The Column of Constantine has ancient inscriptions; take a moment to find them.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Historic Path
Explore the area around the Column of Constantine on foot to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere.
💳 Use Istanbulkart
Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries. Load it up for easy transit.
🚌 Airport Coach is Key
Havaist or Havabus coaches offer a cheap and efficient way to reach the city from Istanbul Airport.
🧐 Look for Inscriptions
The Column of Constantine has ancient inscriptions; take a moment to find them.
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Column
Combine your visit with nearby sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque for a full historical immersion.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Column of Constantine a significant historical marker, offering a glimpse into Istanbul's Roman and Byzantine past. While it's an outdoor monument without an entrance fee, some find its current state less visually striking than other major attractions. Its historical context and location as a former 'center of the world' are frequently highlighted as points of interest.
"The column of Constantine is historic column, located a short distance from the blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in the old part of Istanbul, Turkey. It is in a public Square so there’s no admission ticket required. It is a very interesting historical site to check out if you’re in the city."
Bobby singh
"World traveler here! Nasılsın- Hello, how are you? 👋 🤠 Very well preserved and worth checking out for free when you walk by!
You can read the full history behind this interesting column in my second picture.
Please follow
@bouncingplaces
on YOUTUBE
It helps support the channel so I can continue sharing amazing places like this to eat and fun adventures as I travel the world full time 🌎 🙏
See you in the next one!
Keep on Bouncing Baby 😎❤️👍💯"
Jay BouncingPlaces (BOUNCINGPLACES)
"This is a must see when traveling to Istanbul. Breathtaking colored in lights and now includes some contemporary art works too. I would recommend going early to avoid the lines, but it's pretty quick. Also you go through fairly fast. Make sure to take plenty of photos. Mine blew up on social media from all my friends. It's located right by transit and all the other top attractions to see."
Brian Free
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Column of Constantine is centrally located in the Fatih district. You can easily reach it via tram (T1 line to Çemberlitaş station) or by bus. Many historical sites are within walking distance, making it a great starting point for exploring the old city.
For budget-friendly and efficient airport transfers, use the Havaist or Havabus coach services. They offer regular departures to various points in the city center, significantly cheaper than taxis.
Yes, Istanbul has an extensive public transport network. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that makes paying for trams, buses, metro, and ferries simple and cost-effective.
While ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in Istanbul, some travelers report needing to go to specific pick-up zones, often at the domestic departures level of the airport.
It's advisable to check current regulations.Absolutely! The historical peninsula, where the Column of Constantine is located, is best explored on foot. Many major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque are within a pleasant walking distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Column of Constantine is an outdoor monument located in a public square. You can view it and its surrounding area freely without needing a ticket.
As it's an outdoor monument, the Column of Constantine is accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.
Yes, major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace do have entrance fees. It's advisable to check their official websites for current pricing and booking information.
For many popular Istanbul attractions, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during peak season.
Museum Pass Istanbul offers access to numerous state-run museums and historical sites. Check if the sites you plan to visit are included to see if it's cost-effective for your itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
The column itself, with its weathered stone and ancient inscriptions, makes for a striking subject. Capture it against the backdrop of the bustling city streets or during the golden hour for dramatic lighting.
Yes, you can take photos of the inscriptions. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid touching the monument.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like the square where the column stands. However, always be respectful of local customs and any specific signage.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the column's texture and historical significance. The evening can also be atmospheric with city lights.
For historical sites, consider using a wider aperture for shallow depth of field to isolate details, or a narrower aperture for landscape shots. Adjust ISO for low-light conditions and use a tripod if necessary for stability.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
The Column of Constantine, also known as the Burnt Column, was erected by Emperor Constantine the Great in 330 AD. It marked the center of the Roman Empire's new capital, Constantinople, and was once topped by a statue of the emperor.
The Milyon Stone was a milestone from which all distances in the Roman Empire were measured. It was located at the base of the Column of Constantine and is considered the 'center of the world'.
The column earned the name 'Burnt Column' due to damage sustained from a fire in 1779, which blackened its marble drums. It has since undergone restoration.
Istanbul has had several names throughout its history. It was originally Byzantium, then became Constantinople when it was the capital of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, before finally being renamed Istanbul.
The column has witnessed the rise and fall of several empires, primarily the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, and later the Ottoman Empire, all of whom left their mark on the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more interactive experience, look for attractions that cater to younger visitors. Many museums offer family-friendly exhibits, and parks provide space for children to run around. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, as exploring Istanbul often involves a lot of walking, and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
💰 Budget Travelers
When it comes to dining, explore local 'lokantas' (eateries) for affordable and authentic Turkish meals. Avoid tourist traps in prime locations and venture a few streets away for better value. Consider visiting markets like the Mamak Pasha Bazaar instead of the Grand Bazaar for potentially cheaper souvenirs and goods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Column of Constantine: A Roman Legacy
The column has endured centuries of earthquakes, fires, and political upheaval. Its marble drums were blackened by a significant fire in 1779, leading to its common name, the 'Burnt Column.' Despite the damage, it remains a significant historical artifact, offering a tangible link to the era when Constantinople was the heart of a vast empire.
Adjacent to the column was the Milyon Stone, a crucial Roman milestone from which all distances in the empire were measured. This further cemented the site's significance as the imperial center. Today, while the statue is long gone and the Milyon Stone is largely a ruin, the column itself continues to command attention, a stoic witness to Istanbul's enduring history.
Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport
For travelers arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist or Havabus coach services are highly recommended. These comfortable and efficient buses provide a direct and affordable link to various points in the city center, a stark contrast to the often exorbitant taxi fares. Plan your route based on your accommodation's location to ensure a smooth transfer.
Beyond the airport coaches and the Istanbulkart, exploring Istanbul by public ferry is a must-do experience. Ferries offer not only a practical way to cross the Bosphorus Strait, connecting Europe and Asia, but also provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city's skyline, mosques, and palaces. Taking a ferry is a quintessential Istanbul experience that shouldn't be missed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit