The first historical writer who mentions the Hebdomon by name describes it as an imperial country retreat, a place where Byzantine emperors enjoyed spending time away from the crowded capital. From the context in which Rufinus makes this remark, it is clear that a palace already existed at the Hebdomon before the reign of Theodosius the Great. This shows that the suburb had become important at a very early stage in the history of Constantinople.
The Hebdomon lay at a convenient distance from the city—far enough to provide peace and fresh air, yet close enough for easy access. For emperors burdened with the pressures of rule, such a location was ideal. It allowed them to withdraw from the noise and tensions of the capital without abandoning their responsibilities Triumphs and the Role of the Hebdomon.
The Palace Before and After Justinian
The palace that stood at the Hebdomon before the reign of Theodosius the Great did not remain unchanged. During the reign of Justinian the Great, the residence was either rebuilt or greatly enlarged. Legal and ceremonial texts from Justinian’s time refer to “the New Consistorium of the Palace of Justinian, at the seventh mile from this renowned city.” This confirms both the continued use of the palace and its official importance.
The name given to the palace tells us much about its character. It was known as the Pleasance, or Jucundianae, a title suggesting delight, comfort, and enjoyment. Such a name implies that the palace was not merely functional, but a place designed for leisure, beauty, and relaxation. The emperors evidently found the Hebdomon a pleasant refuge from the formal life of the Great Palace in Constantinople Tour Bulgaria.
The Statue of Justinian and the Porphyry Column
In front of the palace stood a statue of Emperor Justinian, placed upon a porphyry column. This column had been brought from the Forum of Constantine, where it had once supported a silver statue of Theodosius I. The use of porphyry, a rare and precious stone associated with imperial authority, emphasized the importance of the Hebdomon as an extension of imperial power beyond the city walls.
The column remained standing for many years, until it was overthrown by an earthquake. According to historical sources, it sank several feet into the ground, a reminder of how even monuments of imperial grandeur could fall victim to natural forces.
Justinian’s Building Program at the Hebdomon
Justinian showed his special affection for the Hebdomon not only by improving the palace, but also through an ambitious building program in the suburb. He ordered the construction of porticoes, public squares, baths, and churches, all designed in a style worthy of the capital itself. These structures transformed the Hebdomon from a simple retreat into a richly developed imperial district.
In addition, Justinian paid close attention to the Harbour of the Hebdomon. He had it dredged and equipped with jetties, improving both safety and access for ships traveling along the coast. This work strengthened the economic and strategic importance of the area, making it useful not only for leisure but also for transport and defense.
The Hebdomon’s Lasting Importance
Through these improvements, the Hebdomon became far more than a quiet suburb. It was an imperial residence, a ceremonial space, and a symbol of the emperor’s presence beyond the walls of Constantinople. Its palace, monuments, and harbor reflected the power and refinement of the Byzantine court, while its peaceful setting made it a favored retreat for generations of emperors.
