Column of Constantine, Istanbul - A tall tower with a clock on the top of it
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Column of Constantine Istanbul

4.6
·9k reviews·, Türkiye

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Column of Constantine, Istanbul - A tall tower with a clock on the top of it

Column of Constantine Istanbul

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(9k reviews)

"This column is a significant historical marker, offering a glimpse into Istanbul's Roman and Byzantine past."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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 .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Column of Constantine

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

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

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

Getting around Istanbul can be tricky. The Istanbulkart is your best friend for public transport, offering significant savings over single tickets.TikTok For airport transfers, skip expensive taxis and opt for the efficient Havaist or Havabus coaches, which are budget-friendly and reliable.TikTok

Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds

Istanbul is a vast city with many attractions. To make the most of your visit and avoid peak crowds, consider visiting popular sites like the Column of Constantine during off-peak hours. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene experience.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First time in Istanbul? Don’t make these 3 mistakes 🧿 ✔ Where to exchange money safely ✔ How to pay less for transport (Istanbulkart) ✔ What to do instead of overpaying for airport taxis (Havaist or ...
@kat.triplanner
54.8K likes • 961.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Historic Path

Explore the area around the Column of Constantine on foot to discover hidden gems and soak in the atmosphere.Instagram

💳 Use Istanbulkart

Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries. Load it up for easy transit.TikTok

Let me know what other questions you have! My Istanbul travel guide is 🔗 on my site. #istanbultravelguide #whattoknowbeforevisitingistanbul #visitistanbul #istanbultraveltip
@travelbyram
47.6K likes • 1M views
24 hours in Istanbul - Start your day with the stunning views from Süleymaniye Mosque, explore the historic Hagia Sophia to Column of Constantine (a.k.a Çemberli Taş - Hooped Stone) to Galata Tower an...
jessieli
7K likes • 35.1K views

🚌 Airport Coach is Key

Havaist or Havabus coaches offer a cheap and efficient way to reach the city from Istanbul Airport.TikTok

🧐 Look for Inscriptions

The Column of Constantine has ancient inscriptions; take a moment to find them.Instagram

12th-century inscription of the Column of Constantine #çemberlitaş #columnofconstantine #roman #istanbul #thehiddenfaceofistanbul #2024
thehiddenfaceofistanbul
338 likes • 7.8K views

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.Instagram

💳 Use Istanbulkart

Essential for affordable travel on trams, buses, and ferries. Load it up for easy transit.TikTok

🚌 Airport Coach is Key

Havaist or Havabus coaches offer a cheap and efficient way to reach the city from Istanbul Airport.TikTok

🧐 Look for Inscriptions

The Column of Constantine has ancient inscriptions; take a moment to find them.Instagram

🗺️ Explore Beyond the Column

Combine your visit with nearby sites like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque for a full historical immersion.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

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

Historical significance
Free to visit
Central location

What People Dislike

Less visually grand
Weathered appearance

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.Instagram

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.TikTok+1

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.TikTok

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.TikTok 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.Instagram

🎫 🎫 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.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

Yes, you can take photos of the inscriptions. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid touching the monument.Instagram

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.Reddit

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.InstagramReddit

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'.Instagram

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.Instagram

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.TikTokInstagram

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.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Column of Constantine itself might not be the most engaging for very young children, its location on the historical peninsula makes it a great starting point for family exploration. Consider combining your visit with a ferry ride across the Bosphorus,TikTok which is often a hit with kids, offering exciting views and a sense of adventure. The Istanbulkart is also a practical tool for families, simplifying fare payments on public transport.TikTok

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

The Column of Constantine is a free-to-visit historical monument, making it an excellent addition to any budget itinerary.Instagram To save money on transportation, prioritize using the Istanbulkart for public transit and opt for the Havaist or Havabus coaches from the airport instead of taxis.TikTok+1

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.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Column of Constantine: A Roman Legacy

Erected in 330 AD by Emperor Constantine the Great, the Column of Constantine (also known as the Burnt Column) stands as a powerful reminder of Istanbul's Roman past. It was originally a monumental pillar of porphyry, topped with a bronze statue of the emperor himself, symbolizing his divine right to rule and the city's new status as the 'New Rome'.Instagram The column's imposing height and central location underscored its importance as a focal point in the ancient city.

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.Instagram

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.Instagram

Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport

Istanbul is a sprawling metropolis, and mastering its public transport is key to an enjoyable visit. The Istanbulkart is an essential travel companion. This rechargeable smart card can be used on trams, buses, metro lines, ferries, and even funiculars, offering significant cost savings compared to single-use tickets.TikTok You can purchase and top up the Istanbulkart at numerous kiosks and machines throughout the city.

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.TikTok+1 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.TikTok Taking a ferry is a quintessential Istanbul experience that shouldn't be missed.

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