Anastasios Surları

Anastasian Walls (Greek: Ἀναστασιακόν Τεῖχος), also known as the Anastasiopolis Walls or Long Wall, were constructed by the Byzantine Empire to defend the northwestern approaches to Constantinople (modern Istanbul). The walls were commissioned by Emperor Anastasius I (reigned 491–518) in the late fifth century with the aim of protecting the capital from invasions coming from the north.

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History

The Anastasian Walls were designed as a defensive line against attacks by the Huns, Avars, Slavs, and other northern tribes. This wall system stretched approximately 56 kilometers from Küçükçekmece Lake to the Black Sea coast. Located far outside the Theodosian Walls, this building served as an early warning system for the capital.

However, due to insufficient fortifications, the walls were gradually abandoned and fell into disrepair. After the seventh century, as Byzantine military strategy shifted, the Anastasian Walls lost their strategic importance and focus turned to the inner defenses of Constantinople. ^【2】

Architecture and Structural Features

The Anastasian Walls were constructed using stone, brick, and earth.

• Main Wall: Comprised a wall approximately 3.5 meters high and 3 meters wide.

• Ditches: Deep ditches were positioned in front of the walls.

• Towers: Watchtowers were placed at regular intervals.

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Today, most of the walls have been destroyed, though some remnants still stand. Remains of the walls can be found in forested areas west of Istanbul.