The 1800-year-old historical hippodrome wall used as a parking lot by İSPARK was captured in aerial view.

The wall of the historic hippodrome located in Sultanahmet, known as ‘Sfendon’, has become a parking lot by İSPARK. The only surviving part of the hippodrome, which is one of the oldest historical monuments, is Sfendon, but it is not visible due to cars parked in front of it, although the parking lot was captured in aerial images. Archaeologist and Historian Ömer Faruk Yavaşçay, who provided information about the historic hippodrome, stated, “There is a parking lot right in front of Sfendon. Unfortunately, this parking lot is not suitable for the historical structure of the hippodrome. People want to walk around here, but they cannot do so comfortably because of the parking lot. The parking lot disturbs the visual aesthetics of a structure that has an 1800-year history.”
The hippodrome, one of the oldest structures in Istanbul, was initially built in the 3rd century. During the reign of Emperor Constantine, renovation works brought the capacity to between 30,000 and 100,000. Constructed approximately 1,800 years ago during the Eastern Roman period, the historic hippodrome hosted various ceremonies, races, and sports competitions. After the Nika revolt in 532, when the public rose up, horse races did not happen with the same atmosphere. The hippodrome suffered significant damage during the Latin invasion in 1204, leaving only the curved wall known as Sfendon. The Sfendon area, located near Sultanahmet Square, drew attention due to its neglect. The wall remaining from the historic hippodrome became İSPARK’s parking lot. The wall of the historic hippodrome, used as a parking lot, was captured from the air. In the parking lot, which attracted significant interest from tourists, it was observed that vehicles were parked very close to the structure. Cars blocking part of the view of the monument hindered pedestrian access, and market stalls around the area also attracted attention.
“Only the Sfendon wall remains standing from the hippodrome”
Archaeologist and Historian Ömer Faruk Yavaşçay continued, “The hippodrome was first constructed in the early 200s AD by the Roman Emperor Septimius Severus. While some sources state that it was completed, others mention that it was not fully built. A hundred years passed, and in 300 AD, during Emperor Constantine’s reign, the main hippodrome was constructed. The opening of the hippodrome took place on May 11, 330. This is where modern horse races are held. It had a spectator capacity between 30,000 and 100,000. In 532, the public staged a major revolt here. This revolt is recorded as the Nika Revolt. After the revolt, horse races did not return to their former glory. Until 1204, horse races were held occasionally. In 1204, the Latins invaded Istanbul during the Fourth Crusade. They looted everywhere, including the hippodrome. This plunder lasted for 57 years. By the end of those 57 years, very little remained of the hippodrome. It had been plundered, and everything was in ruins. No races were held in the hippodrome after 1261. After the conquest of Istanbul in 1453, the festivities of the Ottoman Empire began here. Again, equestrian events were organized. This area measures 120 by 440 meters. The area we are currently in is one of the most important parts of the structure. Under the part we call Sfendon, there were wild animals. The clothing of those who conducted the races was also stored here. There were warehouses. This is the only part that has remained standing from the hippodrome. It does not look aesthetically pleasing. It needs to be protected. A landscaping project needs to be undertaken. The area is closed off, and tourists cannot visit comfortably. Sfendon is where horses would make a complete U-turn. Today, we can say it is behind the wall. It can actually be accessed. There are two entrances. It needs to be opened entirely for tourism. It has been like this for years, and no intervention has been made. The inside is filled with water. This water needs to be drained. Afterwards, it needs to be reintegrated into our social and cultural life. There is a parking lot right in front of Sfendon. Unfortunately, this parking lot is not suitable for the historical structure of the hippodrome. Because people want to walk around here. They cannot do so comfortably because of this parking lot. This is a structure with an 1800-year history. The parking lot disturbs the historical appearance of the area. It needs to be transformed into a place where tourists can explore comfortably. Excavation work needs to be carried out. If we dig about 1.5 meters, the impressive view of Sfendon will emerge.”