Monthly Archives: February 2017

Constantine VII (from ‘Rulers of the Byzantine Empire’ published by KIBEA)

Ivory plaque showing the coronation of Constantine VII by Christ

David composing the Psalms from the Paris Psalter, an illuminated Byzantine manuscript produced during the 10th century.

The Limburg reliquary was created to hold a piece of the true cross. Basil Lekapenus sponsored its creation

We explore the life of Constantine VII. What was it like spending 25 years under the thumb of the Lecapeni? What did he really think of them? What did he do with his time? We also look at the many works published during his reign for clues to his personality.

Period: 905-946

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Byzantine fleet attack Rus ships (found on facebook page ‘Byzantine Military History’)

Surrender of the Mandylion from the Madrid copy of the Chronicle of John Skylitzes

A Rus raid delays John Kourkouas from leading a raid into Syria. When he does though he captures the sacred Mandylion and brings it back to the capital. Soon afterwards though he and Romanus are ousted from power.

Period: 941-945

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Capture of Melitene from the Madrid copy of the Chronicle of John Skylitzes

John Kourkouas captures Melitene, providing the Empire with its first eastern conquest in centuries. The Islamic world is alarmed at this news and the Hamdanid family begin to provide resistance. However their preoccupation with Baghdad means they may have already conceded the mountains to the Romans.

Period: 931-940

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Use of a portable Byzantine flamethrower for Greek fire from atop a flying bridge against a castle. Illumination from the Poliorcetica of Hero of Byzantium.

927-8 was a terrible winter. The suffering of the common people led many to sell their farms to their wealthy neighbours. Romanus legislated quickly to put a stop to it. Meanwhile John Kourkouas led the army into Armenia with Melitene in his sights.

Period: 927-931

Download: Attract and Repel

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