Monday, February 16, 2009

Geography In Byzantium


Geography is an important factor in the Byzantine empire. Each monument and place has its unique location and features. Read on to find out how each of these locations relate to the geography.

Constantinople
was founded in 342 by Constantine I. The capital has a great geographical significance. It is surrounded on three sides by water, making it easy and well defended. It is located right between the Black Sea and the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. In this way, all trade routes from Asia, Europe, and Northern Africa pass through Constantinople. Thanks to this location, Constantinople became one of the wealthiest, richest cities in all of Byzantine Empire. It's become a natural crossroad for trading,and like today it grew richer and richer. Constantinople is one of the main attractions to visitors.

The Hippodrome is a famous landmark located in the center of Constantinople, the Byzantine Empire. The earliest Hippodrome was placed in Greece, but the one currently sitting in Constantinople is the most famous. This monument has caught the attention of millions of citizens, with its well-known chariot race events. Still it is not only used as a sporting event, but also as a center for the encountering of the citizens and the government intended for political discussions. This landmark is a great appeal in the center of the elegant city of Constantinople.

The Eastern Orthodox Church or Hagia Sophia, is one of the most beautiful Christian Churches in the Byzantine Empire.
The church was built in Constantinople, next to the area where the imperial palace was being developed and next to the smaller church Hagia Eirene. The church became the center of religious life in Byzantine Empire as well as the center of Christianity in the Eastern Orthodox. The Eastern Orthodox Church, or Hagia Sophia is probably the most famous landmark in the Byzantine Empire, and its beauty attracts a lot outsiders.

Citations:

“Geography.” Byzantine Empire. 16 Feb. 2009 .

Treadgold, Warren. “The Roman-Byzantine Period.” Byzantine Empire. 16 Feb. 2009 .

Picture Citations:

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