April 2015

Quick links : Photo spot  Istanbul secret
The Hippodrome (Of Constantinople) is located in what is now known as Sultan Ahmet Square just behind the Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque. It was formerly a sporting and social centre of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire. The three most significant remnants are the two stone pillars known as Obelisk of Thutmose III and Walled Obelisk and the bronze Serpent Column minus the serpent’s head.

If you have chosen to stay at Star Holiday Hotel, from the entrance door it’s probably less than a minute walk to the square. Before reaching the first pillar, to your left will be the Blue Mosque.

Walking route from Star Holiday across Sultan Ahmet Square to Hippodrome and ‘colourful’ restaurants.

The Hippodrome as seen from Star Holiday Hotel’s breakfast terrace. The Blue Mosque minaret is to the left.

The Hippodrome as approached from Star Holiday Hotel. The Blue mosque will be to your left.

You’ll get to see the Obelisk (stone pillar) of Thutmose III first.

In the centre is the bronze Serpent Column without the serpent’s head.

And to the far end, the Walled Obelisk.

Obelisk of Thutmose III at night. Star Holiday Hotel is so close by, you can come anytime and as many time you chose.

The Walled Obelisk at night.

Towards the end of Walled Obelisk, turn left and you’ll see a row of restaurants painted in multi colours. This is something new, we have never seen before and we consider this as a photo spot as well as a new Istanbul secret.

Colourful restaurants.

A new photo spot in Istanbul. Painting should be completed by the time you read this.