Serpent Column travel guide

The Serpent Column, also known as the Serpentine Column, is one of the oldest and most intriguing monuments in Istanbul, tracing its origins back to ancient Greece. Initially erected in Delphi in 478 BC, this bronze column was created to commemorate the Greek city-states' victory over the Persians at the Battle of Plataea.

In 324 AD, the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great transported the Serpent Column to Constantinople, modern-day Istanbul, to adorn his new capital. The column, originally featuring three intertwined serpents, once stood at the Hippodrome in the heart of the city.

Over the centuries, the column has witnessed various transformations and endured significant damage, losing its serpent heads in the process. Despite this, it remains a symbol of unity and triumph, captivating visitors with its rich historical legacy. Today, the Serpent Column stands as a testament to the ancient past, inviting travelers to explore its storied history and the vibrant cultural tapestry of Istanbul.

One of the most striking aspects of the Serpent Column is its extraordinary design, featuring three intertwined serpents that originally supported a golden tripod. This unique triple-helix structure is a rare example of ancient Greek artistry and engineering. The column's design is not only visually captivating but also symbolically significant, representing unity and strength.

Another notable feature is the inscriptions on the column, which list the names of Greek city-states that participated in the defeat of the Persian Empire during the Battle of Plataea in 479 BCE. These inscriptions provide a tangible connection to the historical events and alliances of the era, making the column a valuable artifact for historians and visitors alike.

Despite its relocation from Delphi to Istanbul (then Constantinople) by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, the column has retained much of its original detail. The serpents' heads, although now missing, were once intricately detailed, adding to the column’s grandeur. The fact that it has survived through centuries of political and environmental changes is a testament to its enduring significance and resilience.

Originally situated in Delphi, Greece, the Serpent Column was relocated to Constantinople by Emperor Constantine the Great in 324 AD. Fascinatingly, the column was once adorned with a golden tripod, which was looted during the Fourth Crusade. The serpents' heads, which once crowned the column, were lost over time, with one surviving fragment now housed in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum. The column was believed to have magical properties, thought to protect the city from snake infestations. Intriguingly, the Serpent Column is also linked to the legendary Battle of Plataea, commemorating the Greek victory over the Persians in 479 BC. Its twisted design is not just ornamental but symbolizes the unity of the Greek city-states against a common enemy.

Located in the dynamic Istanbul, the popular Serpent Column is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of İstanbul or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

İstanbul is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, İstanbul offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in İstanbul and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and The Blue Mosque.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, İstanbul has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in İstanbul, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

The best time to explore Serpent Column in Istanbul is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. These months also fall outside the peak summer tourist season, ensuring more manageable crowd levels and a more intimate experience with the historical landmark.

Visiting in the spring allows travelers to enjoy the city's blooming gardens and numerous cultural festivals, such as the Istanbul Tulip Festival in April, which adds an extra layer of vibrancy to the city. Autumn, on the other hand, offers a different charm with its cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the Serpent Column and surrounding attractions.

While summer (July and August) sees the highest influx of tourists and can be quite hot and humid, early mornings or late evenings can still offer a pleasant visit. Winter (December to February) is the least crowded time, but the weather can be chilly and occasionally rainy, which might affect outdoor plans. Regardless of the season, visiting during weekdays rather than weekends can further enhance the overall experience by avoiding the busiest times.

Serpent Column is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in İstanbul, Turkey. If you're flying in, Istanbul Airport is approximately 22 miles (35.3 km) away from İstanbul. From there, you can easily reach Serpent Column by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in İstanbul, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Serpent Column, which is located 0.5 miles (0.8 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Serpent Column, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd No:53, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Serpent Column!

To truly enjoy your visit to Serpent Column, joining a tour that features this popular sculpture in İstanbul is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Serpent Column draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Serpent Column starting at just 25 EUR below.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Serpent Column and Turkey's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Istanbul Airport and the city of İstanbul, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Turkey cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in İstanbul and beyond.

Conveniently explore Serpent Column and plenty more captivating attractions in İstanbul by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Serpent Column and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that İstanbul has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Serpent Column below.

Aside from Serpent Column, İstanbul is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around İstanbul, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.

Egyptian Bazaar is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in İstanbul, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 160,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Egyptian Bazaar is Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in İstanbul is Grand Bazaar. Like Egyptian Bazaar, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 150,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of İstanbul. This mosque and top attraction in İstanbul has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 120,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of İstanbul below.