What is the significance of the use of marble in Byzantine architecture?

The use of marble was significant in Byzantine architecture for several reasons.

First, it was a durable and long-lasting material that allowed for the creation of ornate and intricate designs that could withstand the test of time.

Second, marble was considered a luxurious material that symbolized wealth, power, and prestige. Its use in churches and public buildings served to magnify the status and influence of the Byzantine Empire.

Third, the use of marble enabled Byzantine architects to create a visual language that expressed the cosmological significance of the structures they designed. Marble was often used to create intricate mosaics and sculptures that depicted religious figures and scenes, creating a sense of space and depth that emphasized the spiritual dimensions of Byzantine architecture.

Overall, the use of marble in Byzantine architecture was an essential element of the aesthetic and symbolic language that defined this distinctive style of building.

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