The Serpent Column is a historical monument located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is a bronze column that stands tall at approximately 8 meters high and is made up of three intertwined serpents. The column is believed to have been created in the 5th century BC and was originally located in the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, Greece.
The Serpent Column was brought to Istanbul in the 4th century AD by Emperor Constantine the Great and was placed in the Hippodrome, which was the center of public life in the city during the Byzantine era. The column was considered to be a symbol of victory and was dedicated to the god Apollo.
Over the years, the Serpent Column has undergone several restorations and repairs. In the 16th century, the heads of the serpents were removed and replaced with a gilded sphere, which was later replaced with a bronze one. The column has also been moved several times within the Hippodrome due to various construction projects.
Today, the Serpent Column is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the bronze serpents and learn about the history of the monument through informational plaques located nearby. The column is also surrounded by other historical landmarks, including the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, making it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Istanbul.
