May 29, 1453: The Day Constantinople Fell

The fall of Constantinople, which occurred on May 29, 1453 was the final phase of the Byzantine-Ottoman Wars (1265-1453).

Having been the seat of the Byzantine Empire for a millennium, Constantinople was the main target of the Ottomans. Ascending to the Ottoman throne in 1451, Mehmed II began making plans to conquer the Byzantine capital. The Byzantine empire had been declining in power and influence ever since the city’s capture and sacking by the Crusaders in 1204.

The Western nations were engaged in their own conflicts and could not spare men or money to aid Constantinople. Minor help came from groups of independent soldiers.

The Ottoman army arrived outside Constantinople on April 1, 1453. On April 5, Mehmed arrived with the last of his men and began preparations for besieging the city.

Although the defense of Constantinople had mostly been successful, the Byzantines lost morale when they heard that there would be no help from Venice.

The Ottomans poured into the city through several gates. It is believed that Constantine was killed in fighting the invading enemy.

Greek scholars fled the city and moved to the West, bringing with them priceless knowledge and rare manuscripts.

https://greekreporter.com/2022/05/29/may-29-1453-the-day-constantinople-fell/