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Definition
Byzantine Coinage
The coinage of the Byzantine Empire continued that of its more ancient predecessors and functioned as a convenient method of payment for goods and services, especially to soldiers and officials, and as a means for people to pay their taxes...
Definition
Byzantine Government
The government of the Byzantine Empire was headed and dominated by the emperor, but there were many other important officials who assisted in operating the finances, judiciary, military, and bureaucracy of a huge territory. Without elections...
Definition
Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire existed from 330 to 1453. It is often called the Eastern Roman Empire or simply Byzantium. The Byzantine capital was founded at Constantinople by Constantine I (r. 306-337). The Byzantine Empire varied in size over the...
Definition
Totila
Totila (birth name, Baduila-Badua r. 541-552 CE) was the last great king of the Ostrogoths in Italy. He was the nephew of the Gothic king Ildibad who was succeeded by Eraric the Rugian (d. 541 CE). The Goths of Italy felt that Eraric was...
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Trade in the Byzantine Empire
Trade and commerce were essential components of the success and expansion of the Byzantine Empire. Trade was carried out by ship over vast distances, although for safety, most sailing vessels were restricted to the better weather conditions...
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Emperor Justinian & His Court
A 6th century CE mosaic depicting Emperor Justinian and his court in the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna.
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The Hippodrome of Constantinople
The Hippodrome of Constantinople was an arena used for chariot racing throughout the Byzantine period. First built during the reign of Roman emperor Septimius Severus in the early 3rd century CE, the structure was made more grandiose by emperor...
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Mosaic with the Virgin Mary, Constantine and Justinian, Hagia Sophia
Mosaic panel located at the southwestern entrance of the basilica Hagia Sophia (Istanbul) depicting the emperor Constantine I holding a model of the city of Constantinople (right), the emperor Justinian I holding a model of Hagia Sophia (left...
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Coin of Justinian II
A gold coin of Byzantine emperor Justinian II (r. 685-95 & 705-11 CE). This example is from his second reign. (Classical Numismatic Group, Inc. http://www.cngcoins.com)
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Capital with Monograms of Justinian I and Theodora
This is a basket-shaped marble capital bearing monograms of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (reigned 527-565 CE) and Empress Theodora (tenure, 527-548 CE). 6th century CE. From Bakırköy, Istanbul, in modern-day Turkey. (Museum of Archaeology...