Andronikos II Palaiologos
Byzantine Emperor and scholar

Born
March 25th, 1259
766 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1332
693 years ago — 72 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Byzantine Empire
Links & References
Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 1282 to 1328. Oversaw significant cultural and economic challenges during the late Byzantine period. Engaged in conflicts with the Ottoman Empire which weakened the Byzantine territories. Encouraged scholarly pursuits and patronized the arts, contributing to the renaissance of Byzantine culture. His reign marked a decline in imperial power and territorial losses, setting the stage for the eventual fall of Constantinople.
Ruled as Byzantine Emperor for 46 years
Consolidated power amidst external threats
Promoted scholarship and art
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