The Stone of Million

There are a handful of interesting monuments and ruins at Sultanahmet Square and Park that are worth a quick look-see while sightseeing in the area. One is the Milion Stone, which is located at just south of the Basilica Cistern just next to an excavation site. There is an information panel just beside the monument. Otherwise, it is fairly easy to miss if you don't know what to look for. Historically, the Milion Stone is a 4th-century pillar used to measure distance during the Byzantine period. It was erected by Emperor Constantine the Greet and was known as the zero-point from which roads led out of the city of Constantinople. These days, you can only see a fragment of the original pole but it remains as a symbol of the city's Byzantine past and heritage.

This neglected stone sits just metres away from the famous mosque. Have a moment to just admire it in its glory.

It's worth a stop because of its age and historical significance. An ancient piece of history that no longer has any obvious markers or signs and is in need of care to preserve its significance. Be aware and watch for pickpockets. Offer a polite but insistent "No thank you" to those who approach you with tourist tips and "I just wanted to sell you a carpet."

It's disheartening to witness such a magnificent piece of history crumbling due to neglect. When will the authorities prioritize preserving history over ideology and religion? We must ensure that future generations can also marvel at these treasures and learn from our past. It's imperative that we take action now to safeguard our heritage for the future.

Historical Significance ​It was erected in the 4th century by Emperor Constantine I. ​It was considered the starting point for all Ancient Roman roads leading to Constantinople (Istanbul). ​It served as the zero point (kilometre zero) used to calculate the distances of all other cities in the world from Constantinople. ​Until 1884, the prime meridian (zero meridian) was believed to pass through Istanbul, where the Milion Stone is located.

Built in the 4th century The starting point of the roads leading to the different cities of the empire Topped with a dome Quadrangular, 4 monumental arches and decorated with numerous statues and paintings Disappeared at the beginning of the 16th century 1960: Its fragments were found during excavations

This is a very interesting piece of history. I’m so glad they did not destroy it.

The Stone of Milion was a monument erected in the early 4th century AD in Constantinople, now Istanbul, Turkey. It was the Byzantine zero-mile marker, the starting-place for the measurement of distances for all the roads leading to the cities of the Byzantine Empire. It thus served the same function as the Golden Milestone (Milliarium Aureum) in Rome's forum. The domed building of the Milion rested on four large arches, and it was expanded and decorated with several statues and paintings. It survived the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453 but had disappeared by the start of the 16th century. During excavations in the 1960s, some partial fragments of it were discovered under houses in the area.