The 13 Most Ancient-Looking Stadiums Still Used Today
The Hippodrome of Constantinople: Byzantium's Arena
In the heart of modern-day Istanbul lies the remnants of the Hippodrome of Constantinople, an arena that once hosted chariot races and political gatherings. Built in the 3rd century AD, it was the social and sporting hub of the Byzantine Empire. Though much of the original structure has been lost, the surviving monuments, such as the Serpent Column and the Obelisk of Theodosius, evoke the grandeur of its past. Today, the site is a public square, where the echoes of history continue to reverberate through the city's vibrant cultural life.
