The Byzantine Empire took control of Malta in 535 AD, and the island became part of the Eastern Roman Empire for several centuries. This marked a new phase in Malta’s history as it fell under the influence of the Byzantine rulers. The Byzantine Empire, with its capital in Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), was the continuation of the Roman Empire in the east. Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean made it an important part of their territorial holdings. It had been part om the Roman Empire before which developed the islands infrastructure and much more.
The Byzantine Empire took control of Malta in 535 AD
The role of Malta in the Byzantine Empire
Under Byzantine rule, Malta played an essential role in the empire’s military and trade networks. The Byzantines maintained control over the Mediterranean, and Malta’s position allowed them to monitor and secure sea routes. The island also served as a key base for Byzantine naval operations. This allowed the Byzantine Empire to control shipping lanes between the eastern and western parts of the Mediterranean, solidifying Malta’s importance in the region. The Byzantines built fortifications on the island to defend against invaders, including the Vandals and later the Arabs.
Cultural and religious influence
The Byzantine Empire also had a significant impact on Malta’s culture and religion. Malta’s churches and religious life began to take on characteristics of the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Byzantine influence was also visible in art and architecture. The island saw the construction of churches and other religious buildings in the Byzantine style, with intricate mosaics and icons becoming prominent features of the local culture.
Decline of Byzantine rule and the Arab invasion
By the 9th century, the Byzantine Empire began to weaken. The rise of Islamic power in North Africa and the Middle East posed a growing threat to Byzantine territories. As a result, the Byzantines’ control over Malta weakened, and in 870 AD, the Arabs invaded the island. This marked the end of the Byzantine period in Malta. Despite their departure, the Byzantine influence on the island remained visible in various aspects of Maltese culture, especially in religion and architecture.
The Byzantine Empire took control of Malta: Their legacy
Although Byzantine rule in Malta ended after the Arab invasion, its legacy endured. The religious and cultural practices introduced during this period laid the foundation for the island’s future development. Influence of the Eastern Orthodox Church, as well as Byzantine art and architecture, contributed to Malta’s diverse cultural heritage. The remnants of Byzantine influence can still be seen today in some of the island’s churches and historical sites, serving as a reminder of the centuries Malta spent under Byzantine control.