Emperor Justinian I, also known as Justinian the Great, ruled the Byzantine Empire during one of its most transformative periods. His reign marked a pivotal chapter in the empire’s history, defined by military conquest, legal reform, architectural achievement, and religious unification. Understanding how long Justinian ruled and what he accomplished during that time provides deep insight into the endurance and influence of Byzantine civilization. His time on the throne not only shaped the Eastern Roman Empire but left a legacy that impacted Europe and beyond for centuries.
Timeline of Justinian’s Reign
Dates of Rule
Justinian I officially reigned as emperor fromAugust 1, 527, until his death onNovember 14, 565. That totals approximately38 years and 3 monthsan exceptionally long reign for a Roman or Byzantine emperor.
Prior to his ascension, Justinian had already been heavily involved in state affairs. His uncle, Emperor Justin I, appointed him as co-emperor in April 527, only months before the elder Justin died. Justinian’s long rule gave him the opportunity to carry out wide-reaching reforms and military campaigns.
Major Achievements During His Reign
Codification of Roman Law
One of Justinian’s most enduring legacies was theCorpus Juris Civilis, or the Body of Civil Law. This comprehensive collection of legal texts was compiled under his direction by the jurist Tribonian and published between 529 and 534.
- Codex Justinianus summarized imperial edicts
- Digest selected writings of Roman jurists
- Institutes legal textbook for students
- Novellae new laws passed during Justinian’s reign
This legal framework became the foundation for civil law in many European nations, influencing legal thought for over a millennium.
Expansion and Military Campaigns
Justinian aimed to restore the Roman Empire’s former glory by reconquering lost western territories. His most famous general,Belisarius, led successful campaigns in:
- North Africa Defeated the Vandal Kingdom in 533534
- Italy Engaged in the Gothic Wars (535554) to reclaim Rome
- Southern Spain Secured parts of the Iberian Peninsula from the Visigoths
Although some of these territories were difficult to hold, Justinian’s reconquests temporarily reestablished Roman control in the West and expanded the Byzantine Empire’s reach.
Religious Policy and Church Building
Justinian was a devout Christian who saw himself as the protector of orthodoxy. He worked to unify the Christian church and suppress heresies. This included exerting imperial control over religious debates and collaborating closely with the patriarch of Constantinople.
One of his most iconic contributions to Christian architecture is theHagia Sophia, constructed in Constantinople between 532 and 537. The massive domed cathedral became a symbol of Byzantine splendor and was the largest Christian church in the world for nearly 1,000 years.
Challenges and Crises
Nika Riots
Early in Justinian’s reign, Constantinople was rocked by theNika Riotsin 532. Originally sparked by discontent with chariot racing factions, the riots escalated into a full-blown rebellion against imperial rule.
- City structures were burned, including the original Hagia Sophia
- Justinian considered fleeing the capital
- His wife, Theodora, convinced him to stay and suppress the uprising
With the help of General Belisarius, Justinian quelled the revolt and reasserted control, but at the cost of tens of thousands of lives.
Plague of Justinian
In 541, a devastating bubonic plague now known as thePlague of Justinianswept through the empire. Originating likely from Egypt, the disease killed millions of people, severely weakening the empire’s economy and military strength.
The population of Constantinople was decimated, and the wider empire suffered agricultural and fiscal disruption. Despite the disaster, Justinian continued his efforts to strengthen imperial institutions and maintain control.
Relationship with Empress Theodora
Justinian’s rule was greatly influenced by his wife,Empress Theodora, who was one of the most powerful women in Byzantine history. A former actress, she became co-regent and advised Justinian on matters of state, diplomacy, and religious policy.
Theodora was especially active in promoting women’s rights and charity. Her influence is widely credited with helping Justinian remain in power during the Nika Riots and with advancing religious toleration in select contexts.
Justinian’s Death and Succession
Final Years
In his final years, Justinian continued to legislate and guide the church despite his declining health. His reign ended when he died onNovember 14, 565, at the age of approximately 83. At the time of his death, he had outlived many of his generals, advisors, and even Empress Theodora, who died in 548.
Successor: Justin II
Justinian was succeeded by his nephewJustin II. Although Justinian left a relatively stable empire, many of his territorial gains proved unsustainable. Still, the empire’s institutions, laws, and religious structure remained deeply shaped by his long rule.
Legacy of Justinian’s Rule
Legal and Administrative Influence
The Corpus Juris Civilis would become the cornerstone of many modern legal systems in Europe and Latin America. It was rediscovered during the Middle Ages and inspired the development of canon and civil law.
Architectural Impact
The Hagia Sophia stood as a masterpiece of architecture, influencing Islamic and Christian structures alike. Justinian’s passion for building also led to the construction of dozens of churches, forts, aqueducts, and administrative buildings across the empire.
Historical Reputation
Historians debate Justinian’s legacy. While some praise his ambition and achievements, others criticize the costs of his wars and the strains they placed on the empire. Nevertheless, few deny that his nearly four-decade reign represented a high point in Byzantine civilization.
Emperor Justinian ruled the Byzantine Empire for approximately38 years, from 527 to 565 AD. His reign was marked by ambitious reforms, military reconquests, legal codification, and monumental architecture. Despite facing riots, disease, and persistent military challenges, Justinian managed to centralize imperial authority and leave a lasting mark on world history. His rule represents one of the most vibrant and transformative eras of the Eastern Roman Empire, with effects that rippled far beyond his own time.