Southeastern Europe In The Middle Ages, 500-125... -

The Avar Khaganate dominated the plains, pushing both Byzantines and Slavs into new territories.

A unique "Balkan-Byzantine" style emerged, characterized by domed stone churches and vibrant frescoes. Southeastern Europe in the Middle Ages, 500-125...

Preoccupied with Persian and Arab wars, Constantinople lost direct control over much of the Balkan interior. The Rise of Regional Powers (700–1000) The Avar Khaganate dominated the plains, pushing both

In Serbia, Stefan the First-Crowned secured a royal title from the Pope, while his brother Saint Sava established an autocephalous Serbian Orthodox Church. The Avar Khaganate dominated the plains

Despite constant warfare, the region thrived as a commercial hub:

Established in 681, Bulgaria became a formidable rival. Under Tsar Simeon the Great, it grew into a cultural and military powerhouse.