The Byzantine Empire history spans over a thousand years of incredible change, power, and influence. This long-lasting empire, often called the Eastern Roman Empire, began when the Roman Empire split in two. At its heart stood Constantinople, a city filled with culture, trade, and political power. Even though it’s gone today, its legacy shaped Europe and the Middle East in huge ways.

Understanding the history of Byzantium means diving into wars, religion, emperors, art, and science. The empire acted as a bridge between the ancient world and the Middle Ages. It preserved Roman traditions, added Greek culture, and defended Christianity for centuries. But it wasn’t always peaceful — far from it.