The world mostly knows him as Constantine the Great (272-337). Constantine steered the magnificent Roman Empire from 306 to 337. He founded the city now known as Istanbul and after his passing, the city was named after him. He was born in Naissos, which is present-day Nis in Serbia. He passed away on May 22, 337, in Izmit. His father was a Roman general.
What sets Constantine the Great apart from other Roman emperors is that he was the first Roman statesman to embrace Christianity. In essence, it was Constantine who elevated Christianity to its current status. Roman Emperor Constantine the Great paved the way for Christianity to become a global religion.
During those times, the Roman Empire spanned from England to the Arabian deserts. Constantine was a devout emperor, but he was unmatched in dealing with enemies. He defeated Emperor Maximus and Licinius in internal wars, and in external conflicts, he triumphed over the Germanic Visigoths and the Middle Eastern Sarmatians. He reclaimed Dacia (the region now known as Romania) that previous emperors couldn't control and united the fragmented empire, displaying his sharp teeth to both friends and foes.
In the year 330, Constantine transformed the ancient Greek colony of Byzantion into a residence for the new empire. This city, which would eventually be renamed Constantinople after his death, embarked on a glorious journey in history, transitioning from the imperial capital to modern-day Istanbul.
Constantine's conversion to Christianity is said to have been prompted by a message he received near the Milvian Bridge, where a cross appeared in the sky, conveying, "By this sign, you shall conquer." He believed that this sign represented victory, and subsequently, he aligned himself with Christianity. The councils he convened in Nicaea led to the acceptance of fundamental Christian principles, unifying the scattered Gospels.
Present-day Sultanahmet and its surroundings owe their ancient identity to Constantine. After making the city the capital, Constantine undertook a massive construction project. He had his son and wife, Kristina, who he suspected of treason, executed, and his wife was boiled in a bath. Orthodox Christian churches consider him a saint, attributing sacred titles to him like the Thirteenth Apostle.
Constantine fought for 20 years to ascend to the throne and reigned as emperor for 31 years. Before embracing Christianity, he worshipped the Roman sun god Sol and sharply distinguished military and civil authority. Despite being a Christian, shortly before his death, he was baptized by the bishop of Izmit in Izmit. He is remembered as Saint Constantine by the Church.
Post a Comment