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Distinguishing the Palaces of Constantinople
Two main points support the idea that the Palace of the Bucoleon and the Palace of Hormisdas were separate buildings. First, the Anonymus explicitly...
Identifying the Harbour of the Bucoleon
With the evidence regarding the famous group of the Lion and the Bull, it is clear that the Harbour of the Bucoleon was located...
The Gate of Tchatlady Kapou
On the western headland of the small bay in front of the Bucoleon Harbour stood an old slaughter-house. This building has long been used...
Earthquake Damage and Repairs in the Late 10th Century
In the year 975, during the final years of Emperor John I Tzimiskes, a strong earthquake struck Constantinople. The tremors caused significant damage to...
Identifying the Empress Irene in the Inscriptions
There is some uncertainty about which Empress Irene is referred to in one of the wall inscriptions. If the inscription belongs to the reign...
Restoration of the Theodosian Walls under Justin and Sophia
An inscription found on the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople reads:
“The Outwork of the Theodosian Wall was restored under Justin and Sophia, our most pious...
The Hall of the Holy Garment The Most Sacred Place in Turkey
The Chirkau Scherif, or Hall of the Holy Garment, is considered the most sacred place in all of Turkey. This special room is located...
The History of the Seraglio and the Fate of Sultans
From the time of Mohammed II, who conquered Constantinople in 1453, to Abdul Medjid in 1864, who moved to the brighter Dolma-Baghtcheh Palace on...
The Seraglio A Historical Landmark
The Seraglio of the Sultan is a vast group of buildings surrounded by a strong wall. It sits at the very tip of the...
The Sultan’s Sons Family Tensions and Royal Favorites
Prince Selim's Fall from Grace
Several years ago, Prince Selim made a serious mistake that changed his relationship with his father forever. He used disrespectful...
