This dissertation was written as part of the MA in Black Sea and Eastern
Mediterranean Studies at the International Hellenic University. The transfer of Rome’s
imperial residence to the East and the adoption of Christianity were two decisive factors
attributed to Constantine I, which instigated momentous changes in world history. From its
foundation in 324 A.D. by the emperor on the strategic site of ancient Byzantion until the
end of the Early Christian Era, Constantinople/New Rome witnessed three great periods of
urban growth and reconstruction. Although originally built as a city with Roman features and
institutions, within about two centuries, the new capital of the Roman Empire acquired the
unmistakable aspects of a Christian city with an extensive network of religious buildings and
processional routes.
Under the auspices of the Constantinian and Theodosian dynasties, a series of new
fora were established in the new urban districts with the intention of serving political and
ceremonial purposes. These multifunctional plazas, essential elements of the urban fabric
inherited from the Greco-Roman world, deviated in some aspects from the traditional
scheme of their predecessors. Relying mainly on the extant literary and graphic evidence,
and less on the limited archaeological remnants, this dissertation examines the material
appearance and everyday functions of the Constantinopolitan fora from the early fourth to
the mid-sixth century A.D., as well as their role in the official and liturgical life of the city. As
stops along the proliferative ecclesiastical processions, with their colossal columns having
been converted into symbols of Christianity, these public spaces were gradually incorporated
into the network of the Byzantine capital’s sacred loci, at the same time contributing to the
sanctification of the former pagan city.
Collections
Show Collections
