Chipre, Cipre, Cypirs, Cypres, Cyprese, Syprus
Cyprus is an island country located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, situated to the south of Turkey, west of Syria, and north of Egypt.
According to the Alliterative Morte Arthure, the Mediterranean nation was allied to Lucius the Roman, and warriors from Cyprus participated in Lucius’s war against Arthur.
In the Middle English Sir Degrevant, Cyprus is named as the home of Sir Sere, Degrevant’s enemy.
Cyprus | 0 to the 9th century AD
Roman Period | c. 30 BC – 330 AD
Cyprus became a part of the Roman Empire after the defeat of Cleopatra and Mark Antony. During this period, the island prospered economically, and many cities were established or expanded.
Byzantine Period | 330 – 1191
After the divison of the Roman Empire, Cyprus became part of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantines fortified the island against Arab raids, and Christianity became the dominant religion.
Christianization | 4th – 5th centuries
Christianity began to spread in Cyprus during the fourth century, and by the fifth century, it had become the dominant religion on the island. Several early Christian basilicas and churches were built during this period. Churches and monasteries were established, and the island became an ecclesiastical center.
Arab Raids and Byzantine Rule | 7th – 8th centuries
The Eastern Mediterranean, including Cyprus, faced Arab raids during the expansion of the Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates. Cyprus was a target for its strategic and economic importance.
Cyprus experienced a significant Arab siege during the Arab-Byzantine Wars (717-718). The Byzantine Emperor Leo III organized the defense, and the Arab fleet withdrew, marking a victory for the Byzantines. The Arab-Byzantine struggles resulted in changes in the political control of Cyprus. At times, the island faced disruptions, with different regions falling under various authorities.
The Byzantine Empire played a crucial role in shaping the culture and Christianity of Cyprus. Cyprus remained an important center for trade and economic activities, benefiting from its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Cyprus in the Byzantine Empire | 9th century
Cyprus continued to be an integral part of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine administration maintained control over the island, and its cultural and religious influence persisted.
See also
Queen of Cyprus | The Legend of King Arthur
Round Tables | The Legend of King Arthur
The Roman Empire | The Legend of King Arthur
Sources
Alliterative Morte Arthure | c. 1400
Sir Degrevant | c. 1400
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470