The Fall of Constantinople

The Fall of Constantinople occurred in 1453 when the Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Mehmed II, captured the city, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire. Constantinople, historically significant for its strategic location and rich cultural heritage, fell after a 53-day siege. The Ottomans employed advanced siege techniques, including massive cannons, to breach the city's walls. This event not only changed the political landscape of Europe and Asia but also spurred the Renaissance, as many scholars fled to the West, bringing with them knowledge and classical texts. It marked the beginning of Ottoman dominance in southeastern Europe.