Obelisk of Theodosius

The Obelisk of Theodosius is one of the most remarkable monuments in Sultanahmet Square, standing proudly on the grounds of the former Byzantine Hippodrome. Despite being over 3,500 years old, it’s still in incredible condition and remains one of the oldest monuments in Istanbul. Originally erected in the Temple of Karnak in Luxor, Egypt, the obelisk was brought to Constantinople by Emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD as a symbol of imperial power and victory. The lower part of the monument features beautifully carved reliefs showing Theodosius and his court watching games in the Hippodrome. What’s especially fascinating is that only the upper section of the original Egyptian obelisk was transported here, yet even this portion stands an impressive nearly 20 meters tall. The Obelisk of Theodosius is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history. Standing before it, you can almost imagine the grandeur of the old Hippodrome and the centuries of empires that rose and fell around it.

An Encounter with 3,500 Years of History in the Heart of the Hippodrome Visiting the Obelisk of Theodosius in Sultanahmet Square is like taking a double journey back in time. Located on what used to be the "spina" of the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, this monument commands immediate respect. The most fascinating aspect is its origin: it is neither Roman nor Byzantine, but Egyptian. Originally carved for Pharaoh Thutmose III at the Temple of Karnak, it is over 3,500 years old, making it the oldest monument in the city. Visually, the contrast is astounding. The monolith of pink Aswan granite is preserved in an almost miraculous state; the hieroglyphs appear so sharp and deep they look as if they were carved yesterday, narrating military victories under the Istanbul sun. However, the real secret lies in looking down. The marble base is purely Roman, added by Emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD. Its bas-reliefs, though more worn, show in great detail the emperor and his court awarding prizes and watching the chariot races that took place exactly where you are standing. It is a mandatory, free stop. I recommend visiting at sunset, when the low light highlights the relief on the base and the shadow of the obelisk stretches dramatically toward the Blue Mosque. Standing before a structure that has survived so many empires is a humbling experience.

Incredible the obolus has come from Egypt was broken, cut down placed on bronze which allows it to withstand earthquakes while not even being anchored to the ground. Quite incredible sight to see highly recommend.

It is impressive to find a monument with so much history right in the middle of Sultanahmet Square, which was the ancient Hippodrome. The most incredible part is that this is an original Egyptian obelisk, made of pink granite and covered in hieroglyphs, over 3,500 years old. It was brought from the Karnak Temple in Egypt and erected here by the Roman emperor Theodosius around 390 AD. It is fascinating to stop and observe not only the obelisk but also the Roman marble pedestal it rests on, which has detailed reliefs showing the emperor.

The Obelisk of Theodosius in Sultanahmet Square stands on the site of the old Hippodrome. Its granite shaft looks surprisingly fresh, with hieroglyphs that seem newly carved despite being over 3,000 years old. The weathered marble base, added later in Constantinople, shows reliefs of the emperor and crowds. Free to see and easy to approach, it’s a striking link between Egypt, Rome, and Byzantium.

Amazing - The Obelisk stands on the site of the old Hippodrome. Made of granite, it is covered in hieroglyphs that are over 3,000 years old. The marble base shows the emperor and crowds. It is free and easy to approach. Very good.

One of the most iconic obelisks. Its shape and structure are very different from others. It has engravings that make it different from others. Also, it has a lot of historical value and how they brought it here. So it’s worth visiting and seeing it yourself. Also, in pictures, it seems smaller, but in reality, it’s much bigger. It’s opposite the Blue Mosque and Sophia Museum, and you will find more obelisks in the same lane.

The Obelisk of Theodosius is one of those spots you kind of stumble upon and then realize how impressive it actually is. It’s right in the middle of Sultanahmet Square, surrounded by history, and it really makes you pause and think about how old and layered this city is. The obelisk itself is beautiful and surprisingly well preserved, with ancient hieroglyphs that date back to Egypt, which is wild when you think about how far it traveled to end up here. The base tells part of the Roman story, so it’s like seeing different civilizations stacked in one single monument. It’s an easy stop while walking around the area—no rush, no crowds specifically for it—and it fits perfectly into a stroll between the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the surrounding landmarks. Great spot for photos and for just taking a moment to absorb the history. Simple, iconic, and very meaningful if you like places with depth and story. One of those quiet highlights that makes Istanbul feel so special.

How cool! A part of Egyptian history in the old Istanbul downtown, precisely within the heart of Sultanahmet Meydanı, part of what is called the Hippodrome of Constantinople. The Roman emperor Theodosius (the Obelisk was renamed after him) brought it over in the 4th century, but it was initially constructed under Pharaoh Thutmose III in Egypt in a temple in Luxor. Like a lot of older historical piece, the Obelisk is a bit damaged, but it fascinating to look at, so many details to discover and admire! Free to visit, a quick walk from the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, check out the Serpent Column near by and the German fountain of Wilhem II ! Lots of history around, you just need to stroll a bit around the Sultanahmet Square and try to learn about the history of this country and the world since it's so connected!

Refer to my other prior Mediterranean cruise reviews of Kusadasi, Ephesus, Galataport Istanbul and the Sultan Ahmet Camii - Blue Mosque in Istanbul. The historic Obelisk of Theodosius was in the same area as the Blue Mosque, which we last visited. This Obelisk was within a short 150 meter 2 minute walk from the Blue Mosque. The Obelisk is the Ancient Egyptian obelisk of Pharaoh Thutmose III, first erected during the 18th dynasty of Egypt. It was re-erected in the Hippodrome of Constantinople by the Roman emperor Theodosius I in the 4th century AD. It was erected in the Hippodrome in part to commemorate the defeat of the usurper Maximus and his son Victor by Theodosius in 388 AD. See my pics and videos. Lots of walking around in this area. More to come regarding another nearby short walk historic site in this area.

Stunning is an understatement. The Obelisk of Theodosius is a masterpiece that should be treasured whenever you pass by it in the square. Make sure to view from all sides and do your best to decipher the hieroglyphs

As a fan of anything have to do with Egyptian history, I was very happy to see this ancient Egyptian obelisk at Sultanahmet Metdani in Istanbul, Turkey. I visited Turkey in 2021 and while I was at Aya Sophia I noticed this Ancient Egyptian Obelisk. It is in the middle of the park, do anyone can go see it and you don't need tickets.

Really interesting to see these around the world. They really should give it back to Egypt though. The area is very nice to walk around and get a treat from a local vendor. Thankfully they also have free restrooms nearby right before you go into the blue Mosque.

Egyptian obelisk that was removed from the tomb of Ahmun Re and on display in Rome. Moved to present location by orders of Constantine for his new capital, but delivery was delayed until Theo was emperor already. I guess delivery sucked over 1700 years ago as much as it does today. The obelisk is the enter piece of the Hippodrome. This is where horse races took place back in the day. Adjacent to Blue Mosque and right across Hagia Sophia. Don't forget to stop by when visiting the main sites.