الاحتفال بميلاد الطفل الإمبراطوري في ضوء كتاب "مراسم البلاط البيزنطي" للإمبراطور قسطنطين السابع بورفيروجنيتوس

Abstract EN

Celebrating the birth of the imperial Byzantine children is one of the most important themes in cultural studies that provides an insightful depiction of Byzantine lifestyle.

The significance of the study rests on the celebration’s influence on the different aspects of the Byzantine society.

Furthermore, the celebration symbolized the pivotal role played by the porphyry chamber in which the imperial children were born.

It legitimized the succession of the heir apparent and ensured the continuity of the Byzantine dynasty.

The paper aims at providing information on Constantine VII and his important work in history, especially De cerimoniis aulae Byzantinae (Book of Ceremonies).

It also elucidates on the significance of the porphyry chamber, its structure, and the ceremony of the imperial children from birth till haircut, including the applause and cheering.

Moreover, the paper highlights the role of the Byzantine archbishop in praying for the imperial child and the emperor, the congratulation of the attendees, and the festivities of the Hippodrome, including horse and chariots racing.

The paper also sheds light on the celebration of the imperial child’s baptism and hair cutting.