Sultanahmet

Sultanahmet is the historic heart of Istanbul, located on the Historic Peninsula between the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Sea of Marmara. Once the centre of both Byzantine Constantinople and Ottoman Istanbul, the area is home to some of the city's most important monuments and archaeological sites. With its historic squares, narrow streets, traditional restaurants and impressive skyline, Sultanahmet is one of the most popular areas for visitors to Istanbul.

The history of Sultanahmet stretches back more than two thousand years. The area was the centre of Constantinople during the Byzantine period and later became the heart of the Ottoman capital. Today, Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, imperial palaces and ancient remains stand alongside one another, reflecting the many civilizations that shaped Istanbul. The Historic Areas of Istanbul were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985.

Sultanahmet is easily explored on foot and is well connected to the rest of Istanbul by tram and other public transport. Its location also makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the Bosphorus, the Golden Horn and other historic districts of the city.

SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most remarkable landmarks. Originally completed as a Byzantine cathedral in the 6th century, it was later converted into a mosque and has played an important role in the religious and architectural history of the city. Its enormous dome and combination of Byzantine and Ottoman features make it one of the defining monuments of Istanbul.

Blue Mosque
The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, was built in the early 17th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. Famous for its six minarets, large central dome and blue Iznik tiles, the mosque faces Hagia Sophia across Sultanahmet Square and remains an active place of worship.

Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace was the main imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans for several centuries. Built after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, the palace developed over time into a large complex of courtyards, gardens and buildings overlooking the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn. Today, it houses important collections and offers impressive views across the city.

Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern is one of the most remarkable surviving underground structures of Byzantine Constantinople. Built to store water for the city, the vast chamber is supported by hundreds of marble columns and creates a unique atmosphere beneath the historic streets of Sultanahmet.

Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome was the centre of public life in Byzantine Constantinople and hosted chariot races and major public events. Today, the area is known as Sultanahmet Square, where several ancient monuments, including the Egyptian Obelisk and the Serpent Column, can still be seen.