The Byzantine Empire, which dates to the 4th century, was a continuation of the vast Roman Empire with its capital in Constantinople — now Istanbul — with Christianity as its state religion. 3.

The Byzantine Empire, which began in the 4th century AD, was a continuation of the Roman empire with its capital in Constantinople – today's Istanbul – and Christianity as its official religion.

The Byzantine Empire, which began in the 4th century AD, was a continuation of the Roman empire with its capital in Constantinople — today’s Istanbul — and Christianity as its official religion.

A doorway consistent with architecture in Byzantine churches was also found, further affirming the site’s supposed history. In short: all signs point toward religion.