Obelisk of Theodosius

Historical landmark · Binbirdirek

Obelisk of Theodosius

Historical landmark · Binbirdirek

1

Sultanahmet, Binbirdirek, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Photos

Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null
Obelisk of Theodosius by null

Highlights

Ancient Egyptian obelisk with 3,000-year-old hieroglyphs  

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Sultanahmet, Binbirdirek, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Get directions

Information

Static Map

Sultanahmet, Binbirdirek, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye Get directions

Features

wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Sep 24, 2025

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@nomadicmatt

10 Offbeat Things to Do in Istanbul (Updated 2025)

"Standing in the square, the Obelisk of Theodosius is an Egyptian monument carved around 1500 BCE near Luxor and later moved to Constantinople; its well-preserved hieroglyphs depict Thutmose III's victory on the Euphrates, and the site is often surrounded by locals relaxing, chatting, and buskers—making it a pleasant spot to sit and people-watch while appreciating an incredible historical relic." - Matthew Kepnes

https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/offbeat-things-istanbul/
View Postcard for Obelisk of Theodosius

noel medina

Google
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.

W. B.

Google
an interesting piece of Constantinople's history. Unlike its more famous neighbor, the Egyptian Obelisk, this one was actually built by the Byzantines themselves rather than being brought from elsewhere. It was Originally covered with bronze plates that would have made it quite impressive, today it's a rather plain-looking stone tower.

Wanderfly Travel

Google
Beautiful piece of historical landmark! It's in the Hippodrome of Constantinople and next to the blue mosque and other touristic landmarks in Istanbul which makes it convenient to see all in one day.

Zeno Freelander

Google
Using GPT to explore the column's historical significance, I find it truly inspiring how this piece embodies diverse “human travel events” across various eras. It’s worth standing before it to fully immerse oneself in its essence.

Dave T

Google
Originally built by Egyptian Pharaoh Tuthmosis III in the 15th century BC to commemorate his victories in Syria. It was originally crowned with a bronze pinecone, which was knocked off bad weather. It was erected by Theodosius in 390 in the Hippodrome. Originally built as 1 of a pair in Karnak. The inscriptions on the base are in Latin on the southeastern side and Greek on the northwestern side.

Bobby singh

Google
This obelisk of Theodosius is located adjacent to the blue mosque in the old city of Istanbul. It is an absolutely fascinating site which date back to the fourth century A.D. It’s in a public Square so no admissions ticket is required. There are plenty of park branches around so you can sit and enjoy the view. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the old city.

Michael Offord

Google
Incredibly well preserved Egyptian Obelisk from Karnak from the reign of Ramses II, on top of a Roman pediment.

Anne Lysa

Google
The Theodosius Obelisk is an amazing and historical monument in Istanbul. Originally from Egypt, it stands proudly with its inscriptions that are believed to be authentic, despite some restoration work done over time. It's fascinating to think about its origins and imagine the stories it carries. Definitely a must-see in the heart of the city!