A Byzantine structure, which probably dates back to the fifth century, was discovered by archaeologists in the square of the Roman Hippodrome, today's Sultanahmet Square, in Istanbul opposite Hagia Sophia.
According to Habertürk, during work in the former building of the Directorate of Cadastres, a screed was initially found in one of the basement walls, attracting the attention of archaeologists. Proceeding with excavation work, they found a space 600 square metres wide and 6 metres and 80 centimetres high.
According to the architectural features of some additions, it is inferred that the original fifth-century structure was converted into a cistern in the sixth or seventh century. At the same time, the floor still has evidence of gutters.
It is noted that the famous racecourse of Byzantium and the imperial accommodation were located directly opposite the said building of the Directorate of Lands.
As finds of the floor discovered are on the same level as the original floor of the racecourse, which is four and a half metres below, there is a suspicion that the arched construction is directly related to the racecourse.
It is noted that the former building of the Directorate of Lands will be turned into a "Museum of Hagia Sophia", which is expected to exhibit objects that were kept in warehouses for centuries and have never come to light.
The discovery of the structure is evaluated by the Turkish archaeologists, under Ayşe Erdoğan, director of the "Museum of Hagia Sophia", as very important, perhaps similar to the findings of the Byzantine period that were discovered years ago in the port of Yenikapı.
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