History in Istanbul

Discover 6 places to experience unusual history in Istanbul.

Column of the Goths

Istanbul, Turkey

Column of the Goths

This column celebrates Rome's victory over the Goths, and may be the oldest Roman monument in Istanbul.

The hotel entrance.

Istanbul, Turkey

Pera Palace Hotel

This historic hotel preserves many treasures from its heyday hosting passengers on the Orient Express.

Detail of the chain.

Istanbul, Turkey

Golden Horn Chain

A section of the long chain that blocked enemy ships from entering Constantinople.

Interior of the mosque.

Istanbul, Turkey

Yeralti Camii (Underground Mosque)

A surprising and unconventional mosque hidden in the subsoil of Istanbul.

Istanbul, Turkey

Viking Runes at Hagia Sophia

A small etching on the white marble parapet was written in runic script by a Viking mercenary.

Bird palace.

Istanbul, Turkey

Ottoman Bird Palaces

The ornate miniature mansions were built for Istanbul's feathered residents.

Are we missing something unusual in Istanbul?