Column of the Goths: a Roman victory monument in Gülhane Park
- Monuments and historic landmarks
- Gülhane Park, Seraglio Point
- Free
Family hotels closest to Column of the Goths
Visitor information
| Type | Roman victory column |
|---|---|
| Built | 3rd–4th century |
| Neighbourhood | Gülhane Park, Seraglio Point |
| Opening hours | During Gülhane Park’s opening hours |
| Admission | Free (inside Gülhane Park) |
| Time needed | 10 min |
| Getting there | T1 Gülhane stop, 15 min walk (through the park) |
| From Sultanahmet Square | About 19 min walk (1.4 km) |
| Pushchair / stroller | Easy with a stroller. The park paths are level and wide |
| Best time | At the end of a walk in Gülhane Park, on the way down to Seraglio Point |
Opening hours and prices can change; check the official website before you go. Map links open in Google Maps.
The story of the column
Thought to have been raised on this site, where the acropolis of ancient Byzantion stood, even before Constantine made the city his capital, the column is made of a single block of Proconnesian (Marmara Island) marble and crowned with a Corinthian capital. The inscription on its base is a short Latin dedication meaning “To Fortune, who returns, for the defeat of the Goths”. Which emperor raised it is disputed; Claudius II Gothicus and Constantine I are the names most often mentioned.
How to add it to a Gülhane walk
The column is at the northern end of the main path of Gülhane Park, near the tea gardens. Entering the park through the Alay Köşkü gate and walking along the tree-lined path, you reach the column in 15 minutes. Continuing past the column, you can walk down to Seraglio Point and the Bosphorus view.
Visiting tips
- Try to find the Latin inscription on the column’s base; the letters can still be read today.
- The tea gardens near the column overlook the Bosphorus; ideal for a break on your walk.
- During the Tulip Festival in spring the park gets very crowded; choose a weekday morning.
Our family hotels near Column of the Goths
Walking times are approximate and measured from the hotel door; where the hotel gives its own time, we show that.
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Emirhan Inn Hotel
Column of the Goths: 32 min walk (2.2 km) Walking route
A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast in Küçük Ayasofya
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Seven Roses Apart Hotel
Column of the Goths: 32 min walk (2.2 km) Walking route
Apartments with kitchens in Küçük Ayasofya, with roomy options for larger families
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Green Life Apart Hotel
Column of the Goths: 32 min walk (2.3 km) Walking route
Family-run apartments with kitchenettes and a sea-view roof terrace in Küçük Ayasofya
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Sareban Hotel
Column of the Goths: 32 min walk (2.3 km) Walking route
An alcohol-free family hotel in Küçük Ayasofya, looking out to the Marmara
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Column of the Goths?
It is at the northern end of Gülhane Park, close to Seraglio Point. It can be seen free of charge inside the park.
Why is it called the Column of the Goths?
The Latin inscription on its base commemorates a Roman victory over the Goths. The column takes its name from this inscription.
