Early Byzantine Period

The Early Byzantine Period, roughly spanning from the 4th to the 7th centuries, marks the transition from the Roman Empire to the Byzantine Empire. Centered in Constantinople, it witnessed the rise of Christianity as the state religion and significant cultural and architectural developments, such as the construction of churches like Hagia Sophia. This era also faced external challenges from barbarian invasions and internal conflicts over religious and political issues. The period laid the foundations for Byzantine culture, governance, and art, influencing Europe and the Mediterranean for centuries to come.