The Radiant Byzantine Empire

 

Priya Singapogu

 

8/25/2022

 

Essentials

 

IEW Unit 2, Lesson4

 

 

The Radiant Byzantine Empire

 

 

 

While the dilapidated Western Roman Empire fell to Barbarians, the Eastern Roman Empire brazenly withstood attacks. One of its most powerful emperors was Justinian the Great, who ruled capably and fairly. When he came to power, each part of the empire had their own laws. Justinian made his own laws that were universally followed. They called these laws Justinian’s Code. It is easy to remember that Justinian was just because his name includes the word just.

Justinian the Great is also remembered for other things. He built the city of Constantinople and a church called the Hagia Sophia. It is a massive dome with many smaller domes underneath. Inside there are stunning mosaics and pure gold, which magnificently adorn the walls and ceilings. Today the Hagia Sophia is a museum that astonishes and amazes all of its visitors. Justinian also nobly recaptured land from the barbarians. Under Justinian the Great the Byzantine Empire was strong, large, and radiant.