Previously, the Hippodrome of Constantinople was the main sporting and social center of the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Today, visitors can explore the renamed Sultan Ahmet Square and see many of the surviving original structures. Aspects of the Hippodrome include the Serpent Column, which is over 2,500 years old, and the Obelisk of Thutmose III, which was originally erected by Pharaoh Thutmose III during the 18th dynasty. The base of the obelisk has a wonderful depiction of Emperor Theodosius offering a laurel wreath to a victor at the Hippodrome. Other attractions visitors can see are the German Fountain and the nearby Blue Mosque.

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