510-529 Eastern Emperor Justinian Builds Hagia Sofia

In this 20 year period, Justin's nephew Justinian became Eastern Emperor in 518 and he adorned Constantinople with the largest church ever built -- the fabulous Hagia Sofia (pictured).

Justinian had a long period in power, from 518 to 565. He suppressed Paganism in Athens and tried to recover the west from the Germans.

He overthrew the Vandals in Africa and established an enclave in Spain, but his efforts were in vain as the Greeks were disliked and the cost was prohibitive.