The Byzantine Empire made significant contributions to history in various fields, including art, architecture, law, and religion. Its unique style of architecture, exemplified by the Hagia Sophia, blended elements of Roman engineering and Christian symbolism, influencing the design of churches in Eastern and Western Christianity. The codification of Roman law under Emperor Justinian laid the foundation for modern legal systems, while Byzantine art, particularly mosaics, impacted later artistic traditions. Furthermore, the preservation and transmission of classical texts during the Byzantine period played a crucial role in the Renaissance and the rebirth of learning in Western Europe.