The Column of Constantine stands in Çemberlitaş, in Istanbul’s historic center, on the site of the former Forum of Constantine. Raised around 330, when Constantine established Constantinople as an imperial capital, it is one of the few surviving monuments from the city’s Roman foundation. Look for the porphyry shaft and the metal hoops added after earthquake damage. In the same square, the 1497 Gazi Atik Ali Paşa Mosque and the modern tramway bring three periods of Istanbul’s history into view. The Grand Bazaar is a short walk away.
A monument at the center of the old forum
Constantine established Constantinople as an imperial capital in the 4th century, and the column was erected around 330 at the center of his forum. The circular forum stood outside the city walls of the time and had two monumental gates. The column is one of the few structures from Constantine’s foundation that still survives.
Its shaft is made of porphyry from Egypt’s imperial quarries. The monument was built to honor Constantine, and its position marked the center of the new forum. Today, the surrounding streets have replaced the forum’s original setting, but the column remains in its square in Çemberlitaş.
The hoops around the shaft
The column’s metal bands helped stabilize it after earthquake damage. The first hoops were added in 416, and they were replaced in the 1970s. The Turkish name Çemberlitaş means “hooped stone,” referring to these visible bands.
The column can seem modest from a distance, but its scale becomes clearer when you stand beside it. Its porphyry surface and metal reinforcements offer details to look for as you circle the monument.
Three periods in one square
The column shares its open square with the Gazi Atik Ali Paşa Mosque, built in 1497, and a modern tramway. Together, they make it easy to see different periods of Istanbul’s history in one place: the Roman foundation, Ottoman architecture and the city in motion today.
The Çemberlitaş tram stop is right beside the square. From here, you can continue on foot to the Grand Bazaar or visit other historic landmarks in the center. Cafés and local food options are nearby if you want to pause between sights.
Häufige Fragen
Is there an entry fee for the Column of Constantine?
No ticket is required. The column stands in an open square.
Where is the Column of Constantine?
It is in Çemberlitaş, in Istanbul’s historic center, beside the Çemberlitaş tram stop.
How old is the Column of Constantine?
It was erected around 330, when Constantine established Constantinople as an imperial capital.
