The concept of the “Third Rome” refers to the idea that a city or a state could inherit the legacy and spiritual authority of Rome, both ancient and medieval. It originated from the belief that Rome, as the center of the Roman Empire and later as the seat of the Roman Catholic Church, held a unique position in history.
The First Rome
The first Rome was, of course, the original city founded by Romulus in 753 BC. It became an empire that stretched across Europe, Asia, and Africa, encompassing diverse cultures and languages. The Roman Empire established its dominance through military conquests and political assimilation.
With its legal system, infrastructure development, and cultural assimilation policies, Rome left an indelible mark on Western civilization. The Roman Republic gave way to imperial rule under Julius Caesar, leading to centuries of emperors ruling from this great city.
The Second Rome
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 AD, another city rose to prominence: Constantinople. Emperor Constantine I established this new capital in 330 AD on the site of Byzantium (modern-day Istanbul).
The city became known as Constantinople or “New Rome. “
Constantinople inherited many aspects of Roman culture and governance. It served as a significant trade hub connecting Europe with Asia and played a crucial role in preserving classical knowledge during Europe’s Dark Ages.
The Byzantine Empire adopted Christianity as its state religion under Emperor Constantine I’s rule. The Byzantine emperors saw themselves as successors to both Roman emperors and Christian leaders.
The Third Rome
The designation of Moscow as the Third Rome is rooted in Russian history and Orthodoxy. Ivan III (Ivan the Great), grand prince of Moscow from 1462 to 1505, married the niece of the last Byzantine emperor, Constantine XI.
When Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, Ivan III saw an opportunity to claim the legacy of Rome and Byzantium. He adopted the title of Tsar (Caesar) and declared Moscow as the Third Rome.
Under Ivan III and his successors, Moscow expanded its territory, assimilated Byzantine traditions, and became a center of Orthodox Christianity. The Russian Orthodox Church played a significant role in shaping Russia’s identity as the heir to both Rome and Byzantium.
Incorporating Elements of the Third Rome
The concept of the Third Rome had a profound impact on Russian culture, politics, and religion. It influenced architectural styles, art forms, literature, and even governmental structures.
- Architecture: Moscow’s iconic cathedrals such as St. Basil’s Cathedral and Cathedral of Christ the Savior reflect Byzantine architectural influences.
- Art: Russian icons often depict religious figures in a style reminiscent of Byzantine iconography.
- Literature: Many Russian writers drew inspiration from ancient Roman and Byzantine history to create works that celebrated Russia’s role as the Third Rome.
The Legacy Today
While the idea of Moscow as the Third Rome may not hold official or political significance today, it remains an essential part of Russian cultural identity. It symbolizes Russia’s historical connections to both Western and Eastern civilizations and its role as a defender of Orthodoxy.
Russia continues to embrace its rich history rooted in ancient Rome, Byzantium, and its own unique traditions. The influence of these legacies can be seen in various aspects of Russian society, from its architecture to its religious practices.
Understanding the concept of the Third Rome allows us to appreciate the complexities of history and how different civilizations have sought to claim a legacy that stretches back over millennia.