Byzantine nobility

Byzantine nobility referred to the wealthy and influential families in the Byzantine Empire, which was the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire after the fall of Rome. This elite class held significant power, often serving as military leaders, government officials, and landowners. They played a crucial role in the empire’s politics and culture, forming a complex hierarchy that included titles like “duke” and “count.” The nobility often competed with the emperor for power, influencing decisions at court and shaping the empire's direction. Their status was marked by wealth, land, and connections within the imperial administration.