Historians have often wondered whether the three names—Tortus Novus, the Harbour of Sophia, and the Harbour of Julian—referred to the same place. Careful examination of historical records shows that these names indeed designate the same harbour. This can be demonstrated in two steps: first, by showing that Tortus Novus and the Harbour of Sophia are the same; and second, by proving that the Harbour of Sophia is identical to the Harbour of Julian The Bucoleon in the Final Days of Byzantium.
Tortus Novus and the Harbour of Sophia
The first step is to compare the locations of Tortus Novus and the Harbour of Sophia. Both were located on the southern side of the city. They sat at the base of the steep slope that descends from the Hippodrome down toward the Sea of Marmara. This shared geographical position makes it clear that they are, in fact, the same harbour. The topography, proximity to the city, and orientation toward the sea all confirm this identification.
Harbour of Sophia and Harbour of Julian
The second step is to show that the Harbour of Sophia and the Harbour of Julian are the same. Historical sources provide direct evidence for this. Leo the Grammarian writes that Emperor Justin II built the Palace of Sophia at the Harbour of Julian. After cleaning and restoring the harbour, Justin II renamed it the Harbour of Sophia. Similarly, Theophanes, another historian, emphasizes in multiple passages that the Harbour of Julian was also called the Harbour of Sophia.
Supporting Evidence from Historical Events
Further proof comes from how these harbours are mentioned in accounts of historical events. For example, the Paschal Chronicle records that the final battle between Thocas and Heraclius took place at the Harbour of Julian. Meanwhile, John of Antioch and Cedrenus describe the same event as occurring at the Harbour of Sophia. This shows that both names referred to the same location Customized Istanbul City Tour.
Other historical references also confirm this. Certain sources place buildings such as the Residence of Trobus, the district of Maurus, and the Palace of Sophia near the Harbour of Julian. Others mention them as being beside the Harbour of Sophia. This overlapping information strongly suggests that the harbours were identical.
By examining their locations, historical statements, and accounts of key events, it becomes clear that Tortus Novus, the Harbour of Sophia, and the Harbour of Julian all refer to the same harbour. The different names reflect changes over time and the influence of various emperors and chroniclers. Today, these records help historians understand the geography and history of the ancient city more accurately.
