Cyprus Medieval Period

The historical era following the last period of the ancient age of Cyprus is known as the medieval period. Cyprus medieval period begins with the island coming under the control of the Eastern Roman Empire which was called Byzantium with its capital, Constantinople. The medieval age of Cyprus is from 330 to 1191 A.D. The main feature of Cyprus medieval period was the introduction of Christianity that was established as the official religion of the island.

The medieval period of Cyprus is also known as the Byzantine era as during this period Cyprus was under Byzantine rule. The Byzantine period of Cyprus witnessed the visit of Empress Helena who founded the Stavrovouni Monastery in Cyprus. The main cities of Cyprus were entirely destroyed as a result of a series of earthquakes that hit the island during its medieval period.

New cities were constructed and a new capital called Constantia was established. 4th century A.D and 5th century A.D were marked with the building of majestic basilicas.

The tomb of St.Barnabas was established in 488 A.D which was followed by Emperor Zeno granting the Church of Cyprus full authority. For three centuries, from 647 A.D to 965 A.D, Cyprus was under constant attack by Arabs and pirates. Finally the Arabs were ousted from Cyprus by Emperor Nicephoros Phocas.

Isaac Comnenus was the next emperor of Cyprus but he was soon defeated by Richard the Lionheart who took over control of Cyprus. One year later Richard sold the island of Cyprus to the Knights Templars who sold it again to Guy de Lusignan. This marked the end of the medieval age of Cyprus.