Theodosius City Walls Istanbul
5th century walls
Zekeriya from Istanbul
As you drive from the airport into the city you will definitely notice half demolished sections of the Byzantine city-walls. These walls were originally built in the 5th century with the others by Theodosios II. These walls have followed the historical development of the city. These land walls especially are lit during the night to give a thrilling atmosphere as you enter the city. It feels like you are entering ancient Constantinople in the present day.
The walls visible today are approximately 20 kilometres long. They are made up of three sections: the Land Walls, Marmara Walls and the Golden Horn Walls (shown in the photograph). You cannot visit these walls but you can get very close to experience them. You can especially experience these walls in the Golden Horn area where they're pierced by a score of gates and posterns, many of them famous in the history of the city. Of these only one or two remain, although the location of the others can easily be determined, since the streets of the modern town still converge to where these ancient gates once opened, following the same routes they have for many centuries past. These gates open to many neighbourhoods in which they have given their names to such as Yenikapı, Edirnekapı and Kumkapı (with 'kapı' meaning 'door').
I have seen a variety of ancient city walls but Theodosios Walls are the best by far. It would be one of my top sites to visit as a local.
Istanbul Spotter Zekeriya
About this spot
Edirnekapı
- Daily
TL
free
Our Istanbul City Guide
Find your way with 249 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Istanbul
Tünel Geçidi Pasajı
Arcade in Taksim
Tünel, İstanbul’s 1875 funicular, and its 1883 arcade offer bookstores, restaurants and wine bars amid historic buildings with a unique atmosphere.
by
Ayşim
Genç
The Church of St. Mary Draperis
Church in Taksim
Discover a quiet, Byzantine-inspired sanctuary behind modest doors. The Church of St. Mary Draperis is an easy-to-miss yet unique and peaceful escape.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Black Mustache
Bookstore in Moda
Black Mustache is a modest place packed with rare, outstanding art and culture books, plus indie-designed stationery that makes you wanna browse on.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Sayla Mantı
Turkish Dumpling Restaurant
The unassuming, small restaurant Sayla Mantı, serves delicious hand-made mantı in the İstanbul style. One of the most reliable spots for fresh mantı.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Yoğurtçu Park
Park in Moda Kadikoy
Yoğurtçu Park is a lively and green escape with spots courts, playgrounds, a beautiful view over the canal and a crowd of friendly strays and locals.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Cherrybean Coffees
Roastery in Moda Istanbul
Cherrybean Coffees' humble porch hides a cavernous, living-room-cozy haven with in-house roasted brews and irresistibly delicious pastries.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Moda Tea Gardens
Tea Gardens in Moda Istanbul
Overlooking the Bosphorus, Moda Tea Gardens is such a realaxing place. Enjoy the tea, sea breeze and sunsets beneath lantern-lit trees in Istanbul’s heart.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Moda Pier
Coastal café in Moda Istanbul
Ready for a stunning seaside, history and excellent coffee? Moda Pier Café in Istanbul has it all, while life unfolds around you, from ferries to playful dogs.
by
Ayşim
Genç
Petra Bebek
Cozy Garden Café
The outdoor area is perfect for warm or hot weather, with a mix of deck chairs, regular tables, and a shared table, all adding to its inviting atmosphere.
by
Cemre
Sandal
The Bench with a poet
A Poetic View of Istanbul
The bench itself, though simple in design, provides a comfortable and inviting place to rest. Sit in silence, read a book, or watch the world go by...
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Yenikoy Kitapcisi
Book Coffee Affair in Istanbul
What sets Yenikoy Kitapcisi apart is that they proudly showcase lesser-known publishing houses, celebrating diversity & creativity of the literary world.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Brasserie Di Dante
Church and mosque unite
When you enter Brasserie di Dante, you're greeted by an outdoor seating area surrounded by plants and trees. Even in cold weather, they have fire heaters.
by
Zeynep
Ozortac
Heading to Istanbul?
249 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Istanbul?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 249 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Istanbul
Get to know our other Spotters from Istanbul
As featured on:
