What was Constantinople like in the Middle Ages?
The Byzantine Empire ruled most of Eastern and Southern Europe throughout the Middle Ages. Its capital city, Constantinople, was the largest and wealthiest city in Europe during the time. Emperor Constantine I came to power as emperor in 306 CE. Under Constantine, the Empire would thrive and become powerful.
What are some important features of life in Constantinople?
Constantinople is almost surrounded by water, except on its side facing Europe where walls were built. The city was built on a promontory projecting into the Bosphorus (Bosporus), which is the strait between the Sea of Marmara (Propontis) and the Black Sea (Pontus Euxinus).
Which peoples attacked the Byzantine Empire what part of the empire did they invade?
The Byzantine Empire was under constant attack from different groups. In the west, the Lombards attacked. In the north, it faced constant threats from the Slavs, Avars as well as the Bulgars. The east was under constant attack from the Sassanid Persians.
What is Byzantine empire known for?
The Byzantine Empire was the longest-lasting medieval power, and its influence continues today, especially in the religion, art, architecture, and law of many Western states, Eastern and Central Europe, and Russia.
What are 3 facts about the Byzantine Empire?
10 Things You May Not Know About the Byzantine Empire
- It wasn’t called the Byzantine Empire until after it fell.
- Constantinople was purpose-built to serve as an imperial capital.
- Its most influential emperor came from humble origins.
- A riot by chariot racing hooligans nearly brought the Empire to its knees.
What country speaks Latin today?
Latin is still the official language of one internationally-recognised sovereign state – the Vatican City. It is not only the language of official documents, but is often spoken among prelates who have no modern language in common.
Is there a dead language?
Currently, there are 573 known extinct languages. These are languages that are no longer spoken or studied. Many were local dialects with no records of their alphabet or wording, and so are forever lost. Others were major languages of their time, but society and changing cultures left them behind.