Byzantine News

Justinian I (482-565) One of the most spectacular features of Justinian's reign was the recovery of large stretches of land around the Western Mediterranean basin that had slipped out of Imperial control in the 5th century. As a Christian Roman emperor, Justinian considered it his divine duty to restore the Roman Empire to its ancient boundaries. Although he never personally took part in military campaigns, he boasted of his successes in the prefaces to his laws and had them commemorated in art. The re-conquests were in large part carried out by his general Belisarius. Bardas Phokas (died 989) In 978 Bardas was delivered from his prison cell by the eunuch Basil Lekapenos, Basil II's uncle and de facto regent. He was dispatched in disguise to his native Cappadocia to stir up the local aristocracy against Skleros, who had revolted against imperial authorities and advanced to the Hellespont. Despite several initial setbacks, and with the assistance of a Georgian ar...

They called me "The Last of the Romans." Lived in the shadow of Justinian and helped him reconquer the Roman lands. Fought against Vandals, Ostrogoths, and the Kutrigurs. They accused me of corruption but my Justinian saved me. I think Procopius, the writer, was too asking too much about my wife Antonina. (General Belisarius 505-565) Visit our page

"Came from a village near ancient Athens. Fought against the Arabs. Must say that killing in the name of Christ was tough decision. But our general comforted us with sweet-as-honey words" (Anonymous Byzantine soldier)

The classical book on Byzantine warfare by John Haldon is now online. Click below to read and enjoy!