The Byzantine Empire was known for its trading dominance in the Mediterranean Sea. Emerging from the eastern portion of the Roman Empire, it held strategic control over key trade routes connecting Europe and Asia. Its capital, Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul), served as a central hub for commerce, with merchants from diverse regions conducting trade in various goods such as silk, spices, and precious metals. The empire's unique geographical position, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, facilitated the exchange of ideas, innovations, and products, solidifying its economic power and influence during the Middle Ages. The Byzantine economic system was complex and sophisticated, contributing to its longevity.