The Majestic Obelisk of Theodosius: A Journey Through Time
Discover the Obelisk of Theodosius, a stunning testament to ancient history located in the heart of Istanbul's Sultanahmet district.
The Obelisk of Theodosius stands as a testament to ancient history in the heart of Istanbul. This monumental structure, originally erected in Egypt, captivates tourists with its intricate carvings and rich history that dates back to 1500 BC. Visitors can marvel at its impressive height and learn about its significance as they explore Sultanahmet's vibrant surroundings.
A brief summary to Obelisk of Theodosius
- Sultanahmet, Fatih, Binbirdirek, İstanbul, 34122, TR
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning details of the hieroglyphics on the obelisk.
- Pair your visit with a stroll through the surrounding Hippodrome, where you can see other historical monuments.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history of the obelisk and its significance.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, enter 'Binbirdirek, Sultanahmet, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul' into your GPS. The Obelisk of Theodosius is located in the Sultanahmet area of Istanbul, which is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from most locations in Mesopotamia. Be aware that parking in Sultanahmet can be limited; it is advisable to look for parking facilities around the area. There may be parking fees ranging from 10-20 TRY per hour.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus or train to Istanbul. From the main bus terminal or train station, you can catch the tram (T1 line) towards Bağcılar. Disembark at the Sultanahmet stop. The Obelisk of Theodosius is a short 5-minute walk from the tram station. Follow signs for the Sultanahmet Square, and you will see the obelisk prominently displayed. The tram fare is approximately 15 TRY, and tickets can be purchased at kiosks or vending machines.
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Taxi
Another option is to take a taxi directly to the Obelisk of Theodosius. Taxis are widely available, and you can request one via a ride-hailing app or hail one on the street. Make sure to confirm the driver knows the location. The taxi fare from central locations in Istanbul to Sultanahmet usually ranges between 50-100 TRY, depending on traffic conditions.
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Walking
If you are already in the Sultanahmet area, the Obelisk of Theodosius is easily reachable by foot. From popular landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, it is about a 10-minute walk. Simply head towards the Sultanahmet Square where the obelisk is located.
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