His most famous monument is undoubtedly the Hagia Sophia, a grand imperial cathedral, and until the Renaissance, the largest domed building in the world. Following the revolt that damaged most of the capital, Justinian used the opportunity to embark on an ambitious building program in Constantinople. To further bolster the Empire’s efficiency, Justinian sponsored a codification of the Roman law known as Corpus Juris Civilis. The Barberini Ivory, depicting triumphant emperor Justinian I on horseback, mid-6th century CE, via The Louvre The empress also played a crucial role in shaping the religious policy, helping her husband to bring together the two opposing factions, and strengthen religious unity, one of the main pillars of the powerful Christian state.
During the infamous Nika Riot in 532, Theodora was the one who prevented Justinian from fleeing the capital and losing his throne. In fact, Theodora soon became Justinian’s closest advisor, and on more than one occasion, it was her who directed the course of the state - and probably saved her husband’s life. Or was he? While Justinian had the final say in the Empire’s affairs, his wife Theodora ruled with her husband as an equal. Within four months, Justin was dead, and Justinian I was the sole ruler of the Roman Empire. Then, in 527, Justin I adopted his nephew and made Justinian his co-emperor. He quickly promoted Justinian to important positions, preparing him for the throne. Justinian’s meteoric rise was greatly helped by his uncle Justin, a distinguished military commander and imperial guardsman, who became the emperor in 518. Justinian was born in Tauresium (near modern-day Skopje, Macedonia) around 482, only a few years after the fall of Rome.
Justinian I, also known as Justinian the Great, was probably the most important Byzantine emperor.
Justinian: The Byzantine Emperor Who Reconquered the West The detail of the mosaic showing the emperor Justinian I, 6th century CE, Basilica di San Vitale, Ravenna, via
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