Byzantium

Byzantium refers to the eastern continuation of the Roman Empire after the fall of its western half in the 5th century. Centered in the city of Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), it thrived for over a thousand years, renowned for its art, architecture, and preservation of Greek and Roman knowledge. The Byzantine Empire played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity and operated as a major political and cultural force in Europe and the Middle East. It ultimately fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, marking the end of its influence and the era of medieval empires.