The world was rapidly transforming into a time of wealth and art where the finer things in life were enjoyed and craftsmanship was perfected. Some claim that the engineering feats of the Romans can be seen in Byzantine architecture, however, because the Byzantine Empire was the leader in this transition to prosperity by changing the face of religion, recreating the territory and capitals of Rome, and ultimately changing the government and the legal system. in this way the Byzantine empire demonstrates how Justinian created a new empire, different from that of the Romans. A notable difference between the Roman and Byzantine empires was religion and its influence. Unlike the polytheistic religion of Rome, the Byzantine faith was rooted in Christianity. Considered the most inspiring and magnificent cathedral of its time, the Hagia Sophia Catherdal stood proudly in the capital of Constantinople. The cathedral collapsed due to frequent earthquakes and its instability, but was quickly rebuilt, restoring and even enhancing the grandeur of St. Mary's Basilica. The presence of God was very strong when talking about the cathedral, as seen in document 4 written by Procopius in 537 “…And whenever anyone enters this church to pray, he immediately understands that it is not by any human strength or ability, but through the influence of God, this work has been perfected.” Unlike the Romans, who credited each of their conquests to themselves, the Byzantines gave most of the credit to God. This example not only shows the strong influence God had, but also the change from a polytheistic religion to a monotheistic religion. However, perhaps the most monumental difference between the Roman and Byzantine religions was that the Byzantine, unlike the Western Catholic... middle of paper... had the final say, but were not seen as a holy people with a powerful similar to that of God who governs everything. In summary the Byzantine laws and government from the Digest, to the Hippodrome and the devout manner of the emperor divided Byzantine from Rome. The Byzantine Empire demonstrates how Justinian created a new empire, different from that of the Romans, the Byzantine Empire was the leader in this transition to prosperity, changing the face of religion, recreating the territory and capitals of Rome, and ultimately changing the government and legality. Thus eliminating any thoughts that the engineering feats of the Romans can be seen in Byzantine architecture, suggesting that Justinian revived the ancient Roman Empire. The end result of these comparisons is ultimately that the Byzantine period was a period of prosperity previously unimaginable for that of the Romans, separating the two empires..