Rome's Three Heirs

Byzantine culture was distinctive in many ways. what are some of its important features?

       One of the most distinctive characteristics of Byzantine culture was its stability in structure. The capital city, Constantinople, was lead in its social life by well educated people who ensured the prospering of the schools, the church, and sports (like chariot racing). It was also stable in its economy. Byzantium became a huge center for trading from the east and west, and it also had its own industries like silk weaving. This allowed the nation to prosper and flourish and ultimately stay alive for nearly a thousand years (pg. 215). Another aspect of Byzantine culture that distinguished it from others was its religious orthodoxy. They had spent much time studying religious doctrine, and they also took very seriously their religious images and their meanings. This is where the "Iconoclast" controversy came from (pg. 216-217). And finally, a defining characteristic of Byzantine culture was their architecture. One of the greatest architectural achievements in Byzantium was the "Hagia Sophia". This was an enormous monument that reflected the "artistry, engineering skill, and spirituality of Byzantium." This building defined what Byzantine architecture would look like, and it remains a marvel to look at to this day.