The Walls of Blachernae and Their Role in History

Importance of the Blachernae Walls

The walls near the Palace of Blachernae were not as strong as the massive land walls of Constantinople. Because of their weakness and their closeness to the palace, they became the scene of many important historical events. Whenever enemies or rebels tried to seize control of the capital, this area was often their point of attack.

Early Intrigues and Revolts

When the Wall of Heraclius still stood alone, the Gate of Blachernae played a decisive role in several political struggles. In 698, the usurper Apsimarus was admitted through this gate by his supporters and replaced Emperor Leontius. A few years later, in 705, Justinian II tried to force his way into the city through the same entrance to overthrow Apsimarus. Again, in 716, Theodosius III entered through the Blachernae Gate and deposed Anastasius II.

The area outside the Heraclian Wall also became the stage for high-level negotiations. Here, Crum of Bulgaria and Emperor Leo the Armenian met face to face to discuss terms, showing the strategic and symbolic importance of this part of the fortifications Private Tours Bulgaria Varna.

Attacks After the Wall of Leo

Even after the stronger Wall of Leo was built, the Blachernae section continued to attract attackers. In 822, the rebel general Thomas the Slav tried to storm the city at this point, just as other enemies had done before him. Later, in 924, Simeon of Bulgaria also directed his efforts against this sector of the defenses, while Emperor Romanus Lecapenus was on the throne.

The Monastery of Saints Cosmas and Damianus

The surrounding district, known in later times as Eyüp, took its name from the famous Church and Monastery of Saints Cosmas and Damianus (the Cosmidion). This monastery had a commanding position on the hill at the head of the Golden Horn, offering one of the most beautiful views of the harbor.

The church was founded by Paulinus, a friend of Emperor Theodosius II, who tragically became the victim of the emperor’s jealousy. Restored by Justinian the Great, the church gained fame for its reputation of miraculous cures. Saints Cosmas and Damianus were known as “unmercenary physicians,” meaning they offered medical care without asking for payment, much like early medical missionaries.

A Target in Times of War

Because of its strategic position, the Cosmidion monastery was often seized during attacks on Constantinople. The Avars captured it during their assault in the early 7th century, and the rebel Thomas the Slav also took control of it during his campaign in 822. Control of the monastery meant not only possession of a sacred site but also dominance over the approaches to the Blachernae walls.

Legacy of the Blachernae Area

The repeated attacks and political struggles at the Blachernae walls and gate demonstrate their critical importance in the defense of Constantinople. Though weaker than the massive Theodosian walls, they stood at a politically sensitive point—close to the imperial palace and commanding access to the Golden Horn. The nearby monastery added both religious prestige and military value, making this district a focal point in the history of Byzantine Constantinople.