1. The Byzantine Empire and Russia

2. The Byzantine Empire
Constantine moved Roman capital to Byzantium-4th c.
Theological controversy raged among patriarchs (Nicaea)
Resulted in Great Schism (1054), splitting Church E-W

4. Brought Cyrillic alphabet and Orthodox Christianity to the Slavs
Faced constant threats from outside forces (Sasanids, Germans, Huns)
By 7th c., Muslim conquests reduced Empire’s land area
Constantinople fell in 1453-became Istanbul

5. Cyrillic Alphabet

6. Hagia Sophia

8. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow