The Enduring Influence of the Eastern Roman Empire on Modern Turkish Culture

Introduction

The Eastern Roman Empire, often referred to as the Byzantine Empire, had a profound and long-lasting impact on various regions across Europe, Asia, and Africa. One of the most significant receptions of this legacy can be observed in modern-day Turkey, which has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in the Eastern Roman Empire. This article delves into the enduring influence of the Eastern Roman Empire on modern Turkish culture, focusing on aspects such as legal systems, architecture, and social customs.

1. Legal Systems: Transitions and Transformations

The legal systems of modern Turkey bear the traces of the Eastern Roman Empire in several ways. One of the primary examples is the Ottoman law codes, which retained and expanded upon many of the legal principles established by the Byzantines. For instance, the Corpus Juris Civilis, a comprehensive legal code edited by emperor Justinian I, was used as a foundational text in Ottoman legal scholarship. This presence is evident in the realm of family law, contract law, and civil rights. The concept of ijtihad in Islamic jurisprudence has roots in the Justinian Code's approach to legal interpretation and development.

The Ottoman Empire's legal framework, while adapting to its Islamic context, still retained many Byzantine legal principles, such as the division of legal actions and procedural rules. This can be seen in archives such as the Divan-? Hümayun and the Beykel, which document the Ottoman legal system and its Byzantine influences. The continuation of these legal traditions into modern Turkey is a testament to the lasting impact of the Eastern Roman Empire on the region's legal landscape.

2. Architectural Legacy: From Theodosius to Modern Urban Design

Architecture is another area where the Eastern Roman Empire's influence is palpable in modern Turkey. The capital of Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, serves as a prime example of this architectural heritage. The Hagia Sophia, once a grand Byzantine cathedral and later a mosque, now a museum, represents the synthesis of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Turkish architectural styles. Other notable structures include the Topkapi Palace, which draws on the architectural elements of both the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. The design of these buildings reflects the transition from Byzantine to Ottoman rule and back again, creating a unique blend of architectural aesthetics.

Furthermore, the use of domes, arches, and brick construction in Turkish architecture can be traced back to the Byzantines. The Hippodrome of Constantinople, now part of the Istanbulata Park, is perhaps a lesser-known but essential monument that showcases the enduring influence. This site, which was a center of social and political life during the Eastern Roman period, continues to be a point of cultural significance and a testament to the rich heritage Turkey shares with its Byzantine predecessors.

3. Cultural Practices: The Continuity of Traditions and Customs

Tracing the influence of the Eastern Roman Empire on modern Turkish culture extends beyond laws and buildings to include daily practices and customs. Turkish baths (hammams), for instance, have roots in Byzantine healthcare and recreational facilities. The Ottoman bathhouses, such as the historic ?emberlita? Hamam, represent a continuation of these traditions, blending Byzantine bathing customs with Islamic adaptations. These bathhouses were more than places for hygiene; they served as social hubs, reflecting the Byzantine Empire's commitment to communal well-being through public spaces.

Besides baths, the structure and organization of Turkish government institutions also show Byzantine influences. The Senatus consultum, a form of decree or resolution, can be seen as a precursor to Ottoman imperial edicts. The Beyga adliye ve analar kahvesi (Ottoman Senate) was modeled on the Byzantine Senate, with a similar structure and function in governance and administration. This continuity of administrative practices underscores the long-lasting impact of the Eastern Roman Empire on political systems in the region.

Conclusion

The Eastern Roman Empire's influence on modern Turkish culture is a complex and multifaceted legacy. From legal systems and urban architecture to cultural practices and government institutions, this heritage has permeated various aspects of Turkish life. By examining these connections, we gain a deeper understanding of the enduring impact of the Byzantine era on contemporary Turkey. This interplay of historical influences continues to shape and enrich the cultural fabric of modern Turkey today.