First, the architectural contributions that the Byzantium Empire had given to the European culture will be discussed. One of the architectural achievements of the empire was the Hagia Sophia that was finished in 537. It stands at a height of 184 feet tall with a dome that is 112 feet in diameter and a circumference of approximately 352 feet. Emperor Justinian was said to have claimed that he had surpassed King Solomon when it was finished. To this day the building still stands and is being used a museum. Many of today’s churches and cathedrals use these types of designs in their own …show more content…
construction (Fiero).
Now that the Byzantium Empires architectural contributions have been discussed, next will be what it contributed to the European economy.
During Justinian’s rule it is said that two Greek Orthodox monks who were his ambassadors, had a part in smuggling silkworm eggs out of China. This began the silk industry for the Byzantium Empire which allowed it economy to grow and compete with eastern lands. The establishment of their economic growth at such an early time has definitely built a foundation for the European economy today (Fiero).
Since the architectural and economic contributions have been discussed, finally the attention of the discussion will be brought to the Byzantium Empires contributions to law. The empire under the rule of Justinian established the revision and codification of the Roman law. It was known as Corpus juris civilus and contained four parts: the code, the digest, the institutes and novels. These laws had a major impact on the European culture as they became the groundwork for most laws and legal systems in European states
(Fiero).
In conclusion, the Byzantium Empire’s contributions to European culture has had an effect on society today through architecture, economy and laws. Without their architectural contributions some of the designs and plans for the construction of religious establishments might be different. If the European economy hadn’t flourished like it did when they smuggled silk, then the economy might not be where it is today. Another point that would be affected if not for their contributions is there establishment of laws. Today’s society might have had a different form of laws if they had not reestablished the Roman law at the time.