In 476 CE, the collapse of the Western Roman Empire, marked by internal strife, economic instability, and relentless external pressures from barbarian invasions, plunged Europe into a period of profound transformation. Emerging from the ruins of Rome's decline, medieval Western Europe navigated with the rise of fragmented political entities and shifting power dynamics. Meanwhile, Constantinople strategically positioned itself as an intersection between Europe and Asia, emerging as the vibrant capital of the Byzantine Empire. Its strategic location and vigorous economy made it a center of trade and cultural exchange, exerting a significant influence on the Eastern Mediterranean region. As Western Europe struggled, Constantinople stood as a pillar of stability, shaping the course of history during the transition to the European Middle Ages. Although the …show more content…
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