History of the Byzantine Empire

The Byzantine Empire was the continuation of the Eastern Roman Empire after the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD. Centered in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), it lasted until 1453. The empire was known for its rich culture, Orthodox Christianity, and strong central government. The Byzantines preserved ancient Greek and Roman knowledge and made significant advancements in art, architecture, and law. They faced various challenges, including invasions and internal strife, but their strategic location helped them thrive for centuries. The empire eventually fell to the Ottoman Turks, marking the end of medieval Europe and the rise of the Ottoman Empire.