The Hippodrome of Constantinople was a spectacular circus that was the sporting and social center of the capital of the Byzantine Empire. It is estimated that the Hippodrome was about 450 meters long and 130 meters wide, with the carceres (starting gates) at the northern end and the sphendone at the southern end. Today, it is located in Istanbul, Turkey and is known as the Sultanahmet Square. The Hippodrome was surrounded by numerous statues of gods, emperors, animals, heroes, and some renowned works of art, such as Lysippos' Heracles and the 5th Century BC Serpent Column. It was the perfect spot for chariot races and political discussions, and the emperor even had a passage connected to his Great Palace. This marvel has endured through the centuries, and today still offers tourists an amazing experience to witness its ancient wonders.