Discovering Our Past: Medieval and Early Modern Times

Chapter 1: Roman Civilization

Web Activity Lesson Plans

“Constantinople, the Capital of the Byzantine Empire”

Introduction
Students have read about the Byzantine Empire. In this exercise, students will learn about the establishment of Constantinople and its significance as an important city in the Roman Empire.

Lesson Description
Students will use information from the “Ancient History Sourcebook: Sozomon: Constantine Founds Constantinople, 324 CE” Web site to design their own capital city.

Instruction Objectives

1. Students will answer questions about the significance of the foundation of Constantinople.
2. Students will then use this information to design their own capital city as though they were emperor.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. He had a vision wherein God told him to move the site of his new city.
2. He wanted to build his own city, one that would rival Rome and be worthy of his name.
3. a hippodrome, fountains, porticoes, and other beautiful ornaments
4. The city was not polluted by altars, Grecian temples, nor pagan sacrifices.
5. Students' designs will vary.