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Theodosius Obelisk

Theodosius Obelisk

Highlight • Monument

Theodosius Obelisk

Name: Theodosius Obelisk
Rating: 2

Recommended by 30 hikers

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Location: Istanbul, Turkey

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Best Hikes to Theodosius Obelisk

5.0

(5)

hikers

1. Sultanahmet Square – Hagia Sophia loop from Mahmutpaşa

5.85km

01:34

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.7

(6)

hikers

2. Sultanahmet Square – Topkapi Palace loop from Vezneciler-İstanbul Üniversitesi

7.53km

02:00

70m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.6

(7)

hikers

3. Theodosius Obelisk – View of the Hagia Sophia loop from Kumkapı

9.98km

02:44

160m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Tips

FARID L

June 19, 2025

It's worth a visit , beautiful city 😍

Andy

October 5, 2025

The Obelisk of Theodosius is an ancient Egyptian obelisk that was brought to Constantinople under Emperor Theodosius I and erected in 390 AD in the Hippodrome, today's Sultanahmet Square.
The ancient Egyptian obelisk, created during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III, is approximately 3,500 years old and is the oldest monument in Istanbul.

Translated by Google •

Faheem Hunarwar 🌲

May 23, 2025

Obelisk of Theodosius, Istanbul, Turkey 🇹🇷

The Obelisk of Theodosius stands in the Hippodrome of Constantinople, now Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, Turkey. Erected by the Roman Emperor Theodosius I in the late 4th century AD, this ancient Egyptian obelisk is a testament to the city's rich history. It was originally carved in Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III in the 15th century BC and transported to Constantinople, where it became a symbol of imperial power.

The obelisk is made of red granite and covered with hieroglyphs that tell the story of Thutmose III's victories. It rests on a marble pedestal that depicts Theodosius I and his family attending events in the Hippodrome. Despite its age and journey, the Obelisk of Theodosius remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of both ancient Egypt and the Byzantine Empire.

Visiting the Obelisk of Theodosius is a must for anyone exploring Istanbul. Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, it's easily accessible and surrounded by other historical landmarks, including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The area is bustling with activity, offering a vibrant atmosphere and numerous opportunities to learn about the city's fascinating past.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 40 m

Weather

Today

Monday 24 November

15°C

9°C

10 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h

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See hikes here

Take Me There

Location: Istanbul, Turkey

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Theodosius Obelisk

1. Sultanahmet Square – Hagia Sophia loop from Mahmutpaşa

2. Sultanahmet Square – Topkapi Palace loop from Vezneciler-İstanbul Üniversitesi

3. Theodosius Obelisk – View of the Hagia Sophia loop from Kumkapı

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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