Armenians of The Byzantine Empire – Charles Diehl

The origin of many best generals and excellent administrators of Byzantine Empire is Armenia.

Even some emperors came from Armenia, like Heraclius in 7^th century, Leo V the Armenian and Romanos I Lekapenos in 9^th century, and John I Tzimiskes in 10^th century. Total number of rulers of Armenian origin of Byzantine Empire, according to various sources, is 20-40.

Armenia has given beautiful soldiers and politicians to Byzantine Empire. In 10^th century, the Armenian units were considered the best squads of the Byzantine army.

From the middle of 9^th century to the beginning of 11^th century, among the brave and devoted rulers of the empire five have been particularly noted – Basil I the Macedonian, Romanos I Lekapenos, Nikephorus II Phokas, John I Tzimiskes and Basil II. It is well known that they all had Armenian roots.

Charles Diehl, French historian and a leading authority on Byzantine art and history.