Book of the Eparch

The Book of the Eparch was an ancient Byzantine manual from roughly the 10th century that outlined regulations for urban life and commerce in Constantinople. It served as a guide for officials overseeing markets, trades, and guilds, setting rules to maintain order, ensure fair trade, and prevent fraud. The book detailed responsibilities of merchants, craftsmen, and city officials, aiming to promote economic stability and social harmony within the city. Essentially, it was a practical code that helped organize and regulate daily life in the bustling imperial capital.