| Roman Empire |
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By 200 B.C., it had become difficult for the imperial capital Rome to rule over the vast area that made up the Roman Empire, reaching from Spain to Mesopotamia. A new administrative center was needed, especially in order to get a firm hold on the eastern part of the empire. Beginning in 146 B.C., Byzantion, which was situated at the crossroads of the trade routes, became the administrative center of the Eastern Roman Empire and became known as Nea Roma. As the capital city of the eastern part of the empire, Nea Roma assumed an important role in world politics and culture. In keeping with this new status, new construction was started.Harbors and waterways were reconstructed. In the hippodrome at the center of the city, the emperor and nearly the entire population would gather to watch wild animal races and athletic events and enjoy feasts and celebrations. After Emperor Constantine took the throne, the city was renamed Constantinopolis (May 11, 330) |