Overview of the Byzantine Empire and Its Architecture

Constantine

Moved Rome's capital to Byzantium in 300 AD.

Edict of Milan

Declared Christianity a legal religion in Rome.

Constantinople

Formerly Byzantium, now Istanbul, Turkey.

Fall of Rome

Occurred in 476 AD, marking Middle Ages' start.

Byzantine Architecture

Focuses on functionality, differing from Greek/Roman styles.

Greek Cross

Initial church design, later elongated to Latin cross.

Atrium

Courtyard located in front of church entrance.

Narthex

Covered area before the church door.

Dome

Architectural feature formed by crossing axes.

Apse

Curved wall located at the back of the church.

Mosaics

Art made from crushed stone pieces.

Pendentive

Triangular curved wall supporting a dome.

Nave

Central space in a church, leading to crossing.

Aisles

Side spaces flanking the nave in churches.

Clerestory

Windows bringing light from above the nave.

Triforium

Light openings under clerestory, divided into three.

Holy Roman Emperor

Supreme head of state, successor to Roman Empire.

Charlemagne

First Holy Roman Emperor, crowned in 800 AD.

Ravenna Sarcophagus

Contains bones of the Apostles.

Bell Towers

Indicate time; larger bells for hours, smaller for minutes.

Leaning Tower of Pisa

Famous bell tower, flawed foundation on sand.

Rose Windows

Not present in Byzantine architecture; later Gothic feature.

Hagia Sofia

one of many churches turned to mosques

Pope

had power over Roman Emperor

Church of Santo Spirito

1 nave 2 aisles

Belfry

separate structure enclosing bells from Church

Congregation

where people of the Church go

Celebrant

where priest goes