Page:The age of Justinian and Theodora (Volume 1).djvu/61

 the course of over a mile the shore has been fashioned into wharves from which three sets of stairs of ample width descend to the water's edge to facilitate the unloading of vessels. The first stair, named from its constructor, is that of Timasius; next comes that of Chalcedon; and lastly the stairs of Sycae, a region of the city on the opposite side of the gulf. Alternating with the stairs are placed the entrances of two excavated harbours: the Prosphorian Port for the landing of all kinds of imported provisions, and the Neorian Port, used chiefly as a naval station and for ship-building. The quays of the latter port, which are distinguished by the brazen statue of an ox, are also habitually frequented by the merchants of Constantinople, who make it their principal Exchange. Similarly the vacant spaces about the Prosphorian Port are set apart for a cattle market.

The first issue from the city on this side is called the Gate of Eugenius, and is situated in the retreating portion of the*