Byzantine art began after the edict of Milan by the Roman Emperor Constantine and lasted until the Turkish Empire captured Constantinople. Most Byzantine artworks had a religious meaning. It glorified Christianity and express its mystery. Mosaic artworks were very popular during the Byzantine period. Mosaic is an artwork created by putting small pieces of glass, stone marble and gold. The artists of the Byzantine period wanted to use bright gold to show the power of Jesus Christ. Domes in churches were designed with mosaic art which spread across Europe. Icons were also another form of Byzantine art during the time, they were usually had religious people such as Jesus and saints.
During 330 AD Emperor Constantine renamed the Roman city of Byzantium to Constantinople. Emperor Constantine was the first Christian emperor and due to Emperor Constantine and the Edict of Milan, Christians and other religions were able to worship without any consequences. In 395 AD the Roman Empire split into the Eastern Roman Empire, established in Constantinople and the Western Roman Empire, which was based in Rome.
During 330 AD Emperor Constantine renamed the Roman city of Byzantium to Constantinople. Emperor Constantine was the first Christian emperor and due to Emperor Constantine and the Edict of Milan, Christians and other religions were able to worship without any consequences. In 395 AD the Roman Empire split into the Eastern Roman Empire, established in Constantinople and the Western Roman Empire, which was based in Rome.