description Theodosius Obelisk Overview
The Obelisk of Theodosius is an ancient Egyptian obelisk of Pharaoh Thutmose III currently located in the former Hippodrome of Constantinople in Istanbul, Turkey. The pink granite obelisk was originally erected in the 15th century BC at the Temple of Karnak before being transported to Constantinople by the Roman Empire. It was erected on a marble base in 390 AD by Emperor Theodosius I, with the base depicting the emperor and his court observing chariot races. It is a central monument for visitors exploring the historical Sultanahmet Square.
insights Ranking position
Theodosius Obelisk ranks #15 of 148 in the Monolith ranking, behind Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), ahead of Old Man of Storr.
help Theodosius Obelisk FAQ
What do the hieroglyphs on the Theodosius Obelisk commemorate?
The inscriptions celebrate Pharaoh Thutmose III and his military power. They date from the obelisk's original Egyptian setting at Karnak, long before it reached Constantinople.
Why is the Theodosius Obelisk shorter than a typical Egyptian obelisk?
Only the upper portion of the original monolith survives in Istanbul. The surviving granite shaft is mounted on a carved marble pedestal in the former Hippodrome.
What is shown on the base of the Theodosius Obelisk?
The pedestal depicts Emperor Theodosius I, members of his court, spectators, and the raising of the monument. Its reliefs provide a valuable image of imperial ceremony in late fourth-century Constantinople.
Where can the Theodosius Obelisk be seen today?
It stands in Sultanahmet Square in Istanbul, on the site of the Byzantine Hippodrome. Theodosius I had it erected there in 390 AD.
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