Skip to content
Know.itKnow.it
Create an animated lesson
On request

This article is free to read. Creating a lesson uses your daily or stored credits; review the language and settings before starting.

What was the Byzantine Empire?

HistoryLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

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. It was the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire.

Key things to understand

  1. It was the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire.
  2. Its capital was Constantinople (modern Istanbul).
  3. It lasted from around 330 CE until 1453 CE.
  4. It preserved Greek learning and Roman law for centuries.

People also ask

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.