Byzantine Inventions and Innovations
The Byzantine Empire was known for many important inventions and innovations, particularly in the fields of architecture, engineering, medicine, and military technology. Here is a more comprehensive list of some of the most important Byzantine inventions:
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Greek Fire – an incendiary weapon used by the Byzantine navy that was composed of a mixture of chemicals that were sprayed onto enemy ships and ignited, causing great damage.
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The Hagia Sophia – a massive domed church located in Constantinople that was considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and engineering.
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The Hanging Church of Cairo – another impressive example of Byzantine architecture that was built in the 7th century and is still in use today.
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The Cisterns of Istanbul – an extensive network of underground water storage systems that were built by the Byzantines to provide a reliable source of water for the city.
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Iconography – the development of a unique style of religious art that utilized intricate symbolism and vivid colors.
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Greek mathematics – Byzantine scholars made important contributions to the development of mathematics, including the study of geometry, trigonometry, and algebra.
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Silk production – the Byzantines were renowned for their production of high-quality silk, which they exported to other parts of the world.
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The Lycurgus Cup – a 4th-century glass goblet that changes color depending on the angle and intensity of the light.
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The Siphon – a device used for pumping water that was widely used in Byzantine aqueducts and irrigation systems.
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The Automaton – a self-operating machine or robot that was often used in Byzantine court displays and entertainment.
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The Kefi – a dance and musical genre that originated in the Byzantine Empire and later spread to other parts of the Mediterranean.
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The Hospital – Byzantine hospitals were among the first in Europe and provided medical care to people of all classes and backgrounds.
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The Hospital ship – Byzantine medical ships were equipped with physicians, surgeons, and medical supplies, and were used to treat wounded soldiers at sea.
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The Fireboat – a ship that was equipped with Greek Fire and used for naval warfare.
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The Greek Cross – a type of cross that was commonly used in Byzantine art and architecture, characterized by four equal arms.
These are just a few examples of the many important inventions and innovations that were developed by the Byzantine Empire.
READ MORE
– A brief history of the Byzantine Empire (Article giving an overview of the Empire from inception to fall)
– A Complete List of the Byzantine Emperors(Article with complete list of the Emperors of Byzantium from Constantine I to Constantine XI)
– The Rise to Power of Constantine the Great(Article about the struggle and rise of Constantine, founder of Constantinople)
– Who was Emperor Zeno? (Article about the life of Emperor Zeno)
LINKS
– Byzantine Collection (Byzantine themed merch from High Speed History)
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