A massive circus-style arena located in the heart of the ancient city of Constantinople.
A venue that would serve as the center of entertainment and chariot racing that could accommodate a staggering 100,000 spectators.
Built by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus, it was in the early 3rd century AD, when the Hippodrome covered a vast area approximately 450m long and 130m wide.
The Hippodrome played a vital role in Byzantine society and politics. It was a place where emperors and politicians could address the public, making important announcements or conducting political discussions.
The factions, or racing teams, that participated in chariot races often symbolized political or social divisions within the empire, and their victories or defeats could have political implications.
The centerpiece of the Hippodrome was a long, U-shaped track where chariot races took place. The track was divided into two spinae, or central dividers, decorated with statues, obelisks, and other monumental structures. The most famous of these was the Obelisk of Thutmose III, which was brought from Egypt and erected in the Hippodrome by the Roman Emperor Theodosius I.
One notable event in the history of the Hippodrome was the Nika Riot in 532 AD, during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. The riot erupted in response to unpopular policies and chariot racing rivalries, resulting in massive destruction and loss of life within the city.
The Hippodrome itself was severely damaged, and Justinian subsequently rebuilt it.
Over the centuries, the Hippodrome went through numerous modifications and repairs. However, during the Fourth Crusade in 1204, Crusaders besieging Constantinople looted the city and stripped the Hippodrome of its valuable decorations and treasures.
The arena gradually fell into disuse, and today, only a few fragments of the original structure remain.
If it only survived today, would we see the remnants of the Byzantine Empire and the unique atmosphere that it once held.