Byzantine architects often incorporated water features into their secular buildings as a means of creating a sense of luxury and extravagance. Water in fountains, pools, and streams was used not only for aesthetic purposes but also for cooling and humidifying the air. Additionally, water was viewed as a symbol of purity and cleanliness, and its presence was believed to promote a sense of well-being and tranquility. Byzantine architects also made use of complex hydraulic systems, such as aqueducts and cisterns, to bring water into their buildings and distribute it throughout. These systems were not only functional but also served as impressive displays of technical prowess, underscoring the power and sophistication of the Byzantine state.
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