Theodosian Walls

These formidable land fortifications stretched some six kilometres across the peninsula from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn, protecting Constantinople for a thousand years. Completed under Theodosius II in the fifth century, the double line of towers, curtain walls and a broad moat repelled countless sieges until cannon breached them in 1453. Long sections still stand, some heavily restored and others crumbling among gardens and cemeteries. Walking the wall line reveals gates, inscriptions and towers tracing the medieval city's edge.