Milion Stone

The Milion Stone is a fragmentary monument in Istanbul's Sultanahmet district, once the zero-mile marker of the Byzantine Empire. Originally a four-sided arch topped with statues of Constantine and his mother Helena, it served as the point from which all distances to cities across the empire were measured. Today, only a single pillar base remains, standing in a small square on Divanyolu Caddesi, just steps from Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. Visitors often walk past it without noticing, as it blends into the street furniture. The stone is surrounded by a low railing, and a small plaque explains its historical significance. It offers a tangible link to Constantinople's imperial past, and the nearby tram line adds a modern contrast. While the structure itself is modest, its historical weight makes it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts exploring the historic peninsula.

Don't miss

• See the original marble base of the Byzantine zero-mile marker
• Read the informative plaque explaining its role in the empire
• Photograph the stone with Hagia Sophia in the background
• Imagine the grand arch that once stood here, decorated with statues
• Combine with nearby landmarks like the Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Milion Stone

Cheapest way inIstanbul Traditional Turkish Bath4.8★ · 37 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$19 per personSee dates →Best full dayISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour5★ · 1,359 travelers6-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$85 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleIST Airport Transportation @ Istanbul Hotels5★ · 307 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →

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Getting there

Know before you go

• The stone is small and easy to miss; look for the railing and plaque near the tram tracks.
• Best photographed from the side facing away from the tram line to avoid wires.
• Use it as a landmark to orient yourself in Sultanahmet, it's between Hagia Sophia and the Grand Bazaar.
• Combine with a visit to the nearby Basilica Cistern, just a minute away on foot.

A bit of history

Erected in the 4th century AD under Emperor Constantine I, the Milion marked the center of Constantinople and the starting point for all roads leading to other cities of the Byzantine Empire. It survived until the 16th century, when it was largely demolished; the remaining fragment was rediscovered in the 20th century during road works.