Episode 337 – Byzantine Christmas
Added 2026-01-20 20:38:34 +0000 UTCIn a bonus episode for Patrons I take you through what the Christmas period looked like in Constantinople.
Comments
As far as I know there was no restriction on you visiting the Hagia Sophia or other big churches for regular services. Though social hierarchy might dictate where you were likely to stand. But when the Emperor was in attendance the court would be given precedence and you'd be less likely to get in. Certainly most people would have a relationship with their local church
Robin Pierson
2026-01-23 20:06:32 +0000 UTCGreat episode! Do you know how people decided where to go to church in Constantinople? Could anyone attend whichever church they wanted or was there some restrictions based on class? I imagine where you lived would be the biggest factor since you're probably walking.
Aaron Malek
2026-01-21 00:38:24 +0000 UTCYes, it seems to be one of those interesting byzantine things. September became the time the dates changed linked to the indiction/tax cycle. But memories of the Kalends as the 'new year ' and the beginning of the end of winter remained. And so it was still celebrated like a new year with special prayers and services even though it wasn't the calendar new year
Robin Pierson
2026-01-20 21:58:43 +0000 UTCReally interesting Robin, but I thought September was the start of the new year?
Diarmuid Angland
2026-01-20 21:41:01 +0000 UTC
