History
What is The Byzantine Empire?
The Byzantine Empire was the eastern half of the Roman Empire that survived for nearly a thousand years after Rome fell. Centered on its capital Constantinople, it preserved Greek and Roman culture, Christianity, and law through the Middle Ages.
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Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains the byzantine empire.
Key things to understand
- 1It was the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire.
- 2Its capital was Constantinople (modern Istanbul).
- 3It lasted from around 330 CE until 1453 CE.
- 4It preserved Greek learning and Roman law for centuries.
Frequently asked questions
- Was the Byzantine Empire the same as Rome?
- It was the eastern half of the Roman Empire, which continued for centuries after the western half collapsed.
- What was the capital of the Byzantine Empire?
- Constantinople, a richly fortified city on the strait between Europe and Asia — today's Istanbul.
- When did the Byzantine Empire end?
- In 1453, when Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Empire.