The Great Palace

The Great Palace of Constantinople was the heart of Byzantium for almost a thousand years, serving as both a political and architectural model for Christendom and the Islamic world. Despite its historical significance, reconstructing its layout remains challenging due to the scarce amount of archaeological evidence. This Element synthesises the historical and topographical evolution of the palace, examining its architectural typologies and the role of ritual and artistic objects in representing imperial power. It also addresses key historiographical issues, such as the identification and dating of the Peristyle of the Mosaics, as well as its role in imperial ceremonies. The research is based on textual sources, archaeology, and graphic documentation, culminating in a virtual reconstruction through 3D imaging. By integrating these methodologies, this Element aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the Great Palace, its influence, and its role as a central stage for Byzantine ceremonial and ideological expression.

List of contents

1. Introduction and methodology; 2. Evidence for the study of the palace; 3. The upper palace; 4. The lower palace; Bibliography.

Product details

• Authors: Alfredo Calahorra Bartolomé
• Publisher: Cambridge Academic
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 28.02.2026
• EAN: 9781009675529
• ISBN: 978-1-009-67552-9
• Illustrations: Worked examples or Exercises
• Series: Elements in the History of Constantinople
• Subjects: Non-fiction book > History > Miscellaneous; HISTORY / Middle East / General, Lifestyle & personal style guides, Palaces, chateaux, country houses, Architecture: palaces, stately homes and mansions, Byzantine Empire, Traditional rituals and ceremonies