Who was Marcian's Column built for and why?

Marcian's Column was ordered by Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor, and was erected in the second century AD to commemorate his victories against the Germanic tribes. The monument stands about 15 meters high and was constructed from white marble with sculptures depicting episodes from the emperor's military campaigns.

What does 'Kız Taşı' mean and what is the legend behind it?

Kız Taşı means 'girl's stone' in Turkish, and according to local tradition, young women who pass through the opening in the base of the column will be successful in finding a husband. This popular legend has attracted many visitors over the centuries and remains an important part of the monument's cultural significance.

Where is Marcian's Column located in Ankara and what is nearby?

Marcian's Column is situated inside a public park in Ankara's Business Square, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals. The location in the heart of the business district means there are plenty of amenities and other attractions nearby to explore.

What condition are the sculptures on Marcian's Column in?

Many of the original sculptures that depict episodes from Marcus Aurelius' military campaigns have been damaged or lost over the centuries. Despite this deterioration, the column remains an important monument that showcases Roman era craftsmanship and artistic achievement in Anatolia.

Why is Marcian's Column important as a tourist attraction in Ankara?

Marcian's Column has become a symbol of Ankara and is considered one of the most important monuments of the Roman era in Anatolia. Its historical significance, combined with the romantic legend associated with it, makes it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and cultural tourists visiting the city.

← Back

Column of Marciano

Name: Column of Marciano
Rating: 4.1

İskenderpaşa, 34091 Fatih/İstanbul, Turchia• ★★★★☆• 135 views

Mia Lang

İskenderpaşa

About Column of Marciano

Marcian's Column, also known as Kız Taşı, is a historical monument located in Ankara, Turkey. It is named after Marcus Aurelius, the Roman emperor who ordered its construction. The column was erected in the second century AD to commemorate the emperor's victories against the Germanic tribes.The column, about 15 meters high, was built of white marble and features sculptures depicting episodes from Marcus Aurelius' military campaigns. However, over the centuries, many of these sculptures have been damaged or lost. Currently, the column is located inside a public park in Ankara's Business Square.The name "Kız Taşı" means "girl's stone" in Turkish. According to a popular legend, if a girl can pass through the opening in the base of the column, she will be successful in finding a husband. This tradition has attracted many young women to visit the column over the years.Marciano's Column has become a symbol of Ankara and an important tourist attraction in the city. It is also considered an important monument of the Roman era in Anatolia.

🗺 AI Trip Planner

Plan your visit to İskenderpaşa

Suggested itinerary near Column of Marciano

🌅

Morning

Column of Marciano

📍 İskenderpaşa

›
☀️

Afternoon

Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the world

📍 1.5 km · İskenderpaşa

›
🌆

Evening

Spice Bazaar

📍 1.7 km · İskenderpaşa

›

Buy Unique Travel Experiences

See more on Viator.com

Explore nearby · İskenderpaşa

Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the world 📍 1.5 km away Spice Bazaar 📍 1.7 km away The Serpent Column: A Journey Through Istanbul's History 📍 2.3 km away The Sublime Gate 📍 2.4 km away The German Fountain 📍 2.4 km away Istanbul:The Cistern Basilica 📍 2.4 km away Topkapi manuscript:one of the oldest Quran manuscripts 📍 2.8 km away The Rahmi M Koç Museum 📍 3 km away