Pope Constantine's visit to Constantinople represented a momentous occasion for the Papacy, as it helped to foster diplomatic relations between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. As the 88th pope, Constantine undertook the journey not just as a religious leader, but as a key figure in the geopolitics of the time. His arrival in Constantinople facilitated direct discussions with Byzantine Emperor Justinian II, aiming to strengthen alliances that would bolster both religious and political positions. Notably, this visit underscored the importance of unity among Christians amid the growing divisions between the Eastern and Western churches.

During his time in the city, Pope Constantine took part in elaborate ceremonies that highlighted the cultural and religious fabric of Constantinople. His interaction with the Emperor was critical, as it addressed issues such as the relationship between church and state, and the support of the Byzantine Empire for the papal authority. The discussions may have touched on theological differences but also focused on practical matters that affected both communities.

This visit would be significant, as it was the last papal visit to Constantinople for nearly 1,259 years, until Pope Paul VI visited in 1967. Pope Constantine’s engagement laid the groundwork for future dialogues, and his absence from the city for such a long period resulted in a gradual divergence between Eastern and Western Christian practices and theological perspectives. The lasting impact of the visit speaks to the intricate relationship between religion and politics during this period and its reverberations throughout the ensuing centuries.