Byzantine Christianity

Byzantine Christianity refers to the Christian practices and traditions that emerged from the Byzantine Empire, centered in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul, Turkey) from the 4th century until its fall in 1453. It is characterized by its rich liturgical traditions, iconic art, and theological developments that influenced Eastern Orthodoxy. The Byzantine Church emphasized the unity of faith and culture, merging Hellenistic, Roman, and Christian elements. Its leaders, including the Patriarch of Constantinople, played significant roles in spiritual and political matters. The Great Schism of 1054 divided it from Roman Catholicism, shaping the distinct identities of Eastern and Western Christianity.