Ephesus Open Air Museum
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A Traveler's Guide to Sultanahmet: History and Iconic Sights
The heart of Istanbul’s Old Town, Sultanahmet. This area is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments, blending Byzantine grandeur with Ottoman splendor.
This blog post will guide you through Sultanahmet’s most famous landmarks and introduce you to the deeper layers of history beneath its cobblestone streets, all with the help of a professional tour guide to elevate your experience.
Istanbul's
History
Byzantion: The Ancient Greek Roots
Before it became the capital of two great empires, Istanbul was first known as Byzantion, a small Greek colony founded in the 7th century BC. Strategically located between Europe and Asia, Byzantion controlled key trade routes and grew into a thriving port on the Bosphorus. According to legend, the city was founded by Byzas, who was advised by the Oracle of Delphi to establish a settlement "opposite the land of the blind," referring to the poor strategic decision of neighboring Chalcedon (modern-day Kadıköy) across the water. Byzas seized the opportunity, and Byzantion eventually evolved into one of history's most significant cities.
Constantinople: The Imperial Capital
In AD 330, the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great refounded the city as Constantinople, making it the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. For over a millennium, Constantinople flourished as a center of power, wealth, and Christian faith. Its most famous structure, Hagia Sophia, was completed in 537 under Emperor Justinian I, standing as the largest cathedral in the world for centuries. The city’s Hippodrome was the heart of Byzantine public life, hosting chariot races and political events. Even as it faced external pressures, Constantinople withstood numerous sieges, remaining a fortified symbol of empire until its eventual conquest by the Ottomans in 1453. Under Ottoman rule, Constantinople retained its name and importance, becoming the seat of a new empire.
Istanbul: The Turkish Identity
Although Constantinople remained the official name during the Ottoman Empire, the name "Istanbul" was commonly used by locals and gained prominence in the late Ottoman period. The city became the official capital of the Turkish Republic after the fall of the Ottomans, with "Istanbul" replacing Constantinople in formal use by the 20th century. Even though Ankara became the capital in 1923, Istanbul continued to be the heart of Turkish culture and history. In Sultanahmet, visitors can witness the blending of Byzantine and Ottoman legacies through landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace—emblems of the city’s ongoing significance as a cultural and historical hub.
Iconic Monuments to Explore
in Sultanahmet
The largest cathedral for a millennia, Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest and now serves as a museum and mosque. Its massive dome, intricate mosaics, and blend of Christian and Islamic architectural styles make it a must-see.
Hidden beneath the streets of Sultanahmet, this vast underground cistern was built in the 6th century to supply water to the Great Palace in Constantinople. Walking through its eerie, column-filled chambers is incredible and it really feels like stepping back in time.
Facing Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque is renowned for its six minarets and stunning blue İznik tiles. Built in the early 1600s as the imperial mosque of The Ottomans, it remains an active place of worship, so be sure to plan your visit around prayer times.
For centuries, Topkapi Palace was the residence of the royal family and the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire. Wander through its courtyards, see the famous Harem, and marvel at the imperial collections, including priceless jewels and religious relics.
Once a grand arena for chariot races during the Byzantine era, the Hippodrome’s traces remain in the square between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. The Egyptian Obelisk and Serpent Column are among the few surviving remnants.
Located near Topkapi Palace, the Istanbul Archaeological Museums house one of the richest collections of artifacts in the world, spanning thousands of years of history. From ancient Greek statues to Islamic art, it is a treasure trove of relics.
For the old town
How about a pro guide?
Why Hire a Professional Guide?
While it’s easy to get lost in Sultanahmet’s winding streets and historic marvels, a professional guide can transform your visit into an immersive journey through time. With extensive knowledge of the city’s layered history, a guide can offer you off-the-beaten-path insights, help navigate busy tourist spots, and even recommend hidden gems you might otherwise miss.
From explaining the religious significance of Hagia Sophia to telling fascinating stories about life in the Topkapi Harem, having a guide adds depth and context to every site you visit. Sultanahmet is a place where history comes alive—and experiencing it with a guide will ensure you walk away with more than just photos, but with a true understanding of Istanbul’s significance.
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The old town looks glorious!
It really is 🙂 a unique location handpicked and favored by imperial ambitions for almost 2 thousand years.