Macedonian dynasty
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The Macedonian dynasty ruled the Byzantine Empire from 867 to 1056, following the Amorian dynasty. During this period, the Byzantine state reached its greatest extent since the early Muslim conquests,
Emperor Basil II the Bulgar Slayer (976–1025).
Basil I
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Basil I, nicknamed "the Macedonian", was Byzantine emperor from 867 to 886. Born to a peasant family in the theme of Macedonia, he rose to prominence in the imperial court after gaining the favour of
Macedonian dynasty
…greatest extent since the early Muslim conquests, and the Macedonian Renaissance in letters and arts began. The dynasty was named after its founder, Basil I the Macedonian, who came from the theme of Macedonia in the region of Thrace. The dynasty's ethnic origin is unknown, and has been a subject of debate. During Basil's…
A young Basil at the court of Omurtag of Bulgaria.
Basil victorious in a wrestling match against a Bulgarian champion (far left), from the Madrid Skylitzes manuscript.
The Sicilian stronghold of Syracuse falls to the Arabs in 878.
The army under Nikephoros Phokas the Elder captures the city of Amantia in Italy.