The Hippodrome of Constantinople stood as the bustling heart of Constantinople, the illustrious capital of the Byzantine Empire, serving as a nexus for both sporting events and social gatherings. Today, its legacy resides in Sultanahmet Square, a vibrant locale in Istanbul, Turkey. The term “hippodrome” originates from the Greek words “hippos” meaning horse, and “dromos” meaning path or way, reflecting its association with equestrian activities. Hence, in Turkish, it is also referred to as Atmeydanı, translating to “Horse Square.” Across the ancient world, horse racing and chariot competitions captivated audiences, with hippodromes adorning the landscapes of Greek cities during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine epochs.

Recreation created by Dogukan Palaman.