Column of Leo

#86 among destinations in Turkey

Monuments and statues

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Facts and practical information

The Column of Leo stands as a historical monument in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. This ancient column, also known as the Column of Marcian, is a significant remnant of the city's rich Byzantine past. Erected in the 5th century under the reign of Emperor Leo I, the column is constructed of brick and covered in masonry.

The Column of Leo is located in the Forum of Theodosius and was originally part of a more extensive complex that included a triumphal arch and other statues. Although the column itself is somewhat unadorned today, it was once topped with a statue of Leo I in full military attire, symbolizing his strength and victory over various adversaries. Unfortunately, the statue no longer exists, having succumbed to the wear of time.

The column rises to a height of approximately 12 meters, and despite the simplicity of its design, it serves as a poignant reminder of the architectural and historical significance of the Byzantine Empire. It is situated in the Fatih district, easily accessible to visitors and history enthusiasts eager to connect with Istanbul's ancient roots.

Coordinates: 41°0'48"N, 28°59'5"E

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IstanbulTurkey

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Day trips

Column of Leo – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Istanbul Archaeology Museums.

~270 ftSW
Historic Ottoman-era palace complex
Topkapı Palace, Istanbul
2 min walk • Topkapı Palace, an opulent testament to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, stands proudly in Istanbul, Turkey. Now a museum, this sprawling complex was once the primary residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly four centuries, from the 1460s to the 1850s.
0.4 miSW
Byzantine basilica museum with mosaics
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
11 min walk • Hagia Sophia stands as a testament to architectural grandeur and religious significance in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey. Originally constructed as a church, this monumental structure has withstood the passage of centuries, reflecting the city's diverse history.
0.5 miSW
Restored 542 A.D. waterworks
Basilica Cistern, Istanbul
13 min walk • The Basilica Cistern, known as Yerebatan Sarayı or "The Sunken Palace" in Turkish, is one of Istanbul's most stunning historical sites. Nestled in the historical peninsula of the city, this ancient cistern offers a unique glimpse into the past.
~1210 ftSW
Museum of Turkish archaeological finds
Istanbul Archaeology Museums, Istanbul
6 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Istanbul's historic peninsula, the Istanbul Archaeology Museums are a triumvirate of cultural treasures that offer a deep dive into the city's ancient past. Comprising the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Orient, and the Tiled...
0.8 miW
Shopping, Shopping centre
Grand Bazaar, Istanbul
21 min walk • The Grand Bazaar, nestled in the heart of Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. A labyrinth of history and commerce, this shopping centre spans 61 covered streets and accommodates over 4,000 shops, attracting between 250,000...
0.7 miW
Historic covered spice and textiles market
Spice Bazaar, Istanbul
19 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, the Spice Bazaar, also known as the Egyptian Bazaar, is a vibrant shopping center that serves as a treasure trove of flavors, scents, and colors. Established in the 17th century, it has been the go-to destination for those seeking...
~1360 ftNW
Music venue
Basketmakers' Kiosk
7 min walk • The Basketmakers' Kiosk, situated in Istanbul, Turkey, is a historical edifice that once served as a pleasure palace for Ottoman sultans. This pavilion, known as Sepetçiler Kasrı in Turkish, is nestled on the Golden Horn and dates back to the 17th century, having...
0.5 miW
Mosque
Nallı Masjid
13 min walk • Nallı Masjid, a hidden gem tucked away in the historic streets of Konya, Turkey, is a testament to the rich architectural legacy of the Ottoman Empire. This mosque, less known compared to the grandeur of Istanbul's famous Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque, carries its...
~1650 ftSW
4th-century Byzantine church museum
Hagia Irene, Istanbul
8 min walk • Nestled in the historic heart of Istanbul, Turkey, Hagia Irene stands as a testament to the city's rich and complex history. This ancient church, often overshadowed by its neighbor Hagia Sophia, holds the distinction of being the first church built in Constantinople...
~1400 ftSW
Museum, Archaeological museum
Museum of the Ancient Orient
7 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, the Museum of the Ancient Orient is a treasure trove of artifacts that unveil the mysteries of ancient civilizations. This esteemed institution is part of the larger Istanbul Archaeology Museums complex, which is situated in the...
~1100 ftSW
Museum, Art museum, Architecture
Tiled Kiosk, Istanbul
6 min walk • The Tiled Kiosk, an exquisite example of Ottoman architecture and a historic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey, stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry. This elegant structure, dating back to 1472, was constructed during the reign of Sultan Mehmed II...

Column of Leo

Facts and practical information

Column of Leo plan & book

Column of Leo – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)