Byzantine

 The Byzantine period was from 330-1453 CE and was the longest political entity in European history.  It was associated with the Eastern culture and influenced by the Greeks and Orient.  The Byzantine Empire was a secular leadership and religion.  Constantinople eventually became the capital of the Roman empire.

Emperor Justinian reigned in 527 CE.  During this time the basilica plan changed to a more centralized plan and the east dome was combined with the square base of the classical temple of the west.  The domed basilica was the new and popular architectural type.  Pendetives were also up and coming in the construction of buildings.  The pendetives supported the dome on a square base and were frequently constructed of bricks or light, porous stone.

The Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church of the Holy Wisdom is the main cathedral of Constantinople.  It is a central plan with a circle of windows where east meets west.  The massive dome gives a sense of importance to the exterior.  The architects of this building were Anthemius of Tralles and Isidoe of Miletusgeometricians.

Most of the architecture included multiple domes, round arches and arcades, central planning including the Greek Cross Plan, gold mosaics or lapis backgrounds, and alternating stone colors or stone and brick.  In addition, vaults were seen throughout as well as columns.  There was a seperation of church interiors into the church and nave.  The Byzantine design inspired Romanesque, Islamic, and Gothic architecture.

Byzantine interiors were adorned with marble, frescos, mosaics, and alabaster.  The floor was tiled in marble often with geometric designs and patterns.  The only structure remaining from this time period are churches or temples.

Past

                     

Present

 

Extra Credit:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWhGeDUSu-s