Dr. Paspates, in his study, regarded the wall near the Bucoleon as part of the Peridromi of Marcian, which was connected to the Great Palace (see Labarte, Le Palais Imperial de Constantinople, p. 214). However, this view does not match the evidence. The loopholes in the wall face east, which suggests that the wall belonged to the Palaces of the Bucoleon rather than the Great Palace. This orientation indicates that the wall was designed to defend the Bucoleon complex, which stood behind it.
The wall includes a gate, showing that the palaces were separated from the Great Palace area. It is possible that the wall extended westwards along its northern end to protect the Bucoleon Palaces from that direction. Then, it may have turned southwards to join the city wall at Tchatlady Kapou, protecting the palaces on the western side. Along with the city wall on the southern front, this arrangement would have created a fully enclosed fortified area for the Bucoleon complex. Such a configuration would have provided both security and privacy for the imperial residence The Expansion of the Name “Bucoleon”.
The Conspiracy Against Nicephorus Phocas
The Bucoleon Palaces were the site of important historical events, including the famous conspiracy against Emperor Nicephorus Phocas in 969. John Zimisces, later emperor, carried out the plot with the help of Empress Theophano. The conspirators left at night from Chalcedon, where Zimisces resided. Despite a strong north wind and heavy snowfall, they crossed the Sea of Marmora to the Bucoleon.
The choice of the Bucoleon as the location for the conspiracy highlights the strategic importance of its position. Its proximity to the city, combined with a well-protected harbour, allowed the conspirators to approach secretly by water. Moreover, the palace’s defensive walls, while formidable, could be navigated by someone familiar with the area, making it possible for a carefully planned coup to succeed.
Strategic Significance of the Bucoleon
The walls, gates, and harbour of the Bucoleon Palaces show that the complex was more than a royal residence—it was a fortified center capable of controlling access from the Sea of Marmora. The design allowed for both luxurious living and military preparedness. The orientation of the walls, with loopholes facing east and a connection to the city walls at Tchatlady Kapou, indicates that the palace was defended on all sides while maintaining access to the harbour.
Events such as the conspiracy against Nicephorus Phocas underline the palace’s role in Byzantine politics. It was a place where emperors could be both protected and challenged. Its location, defences, and harbour made it a central point for imperial power and intrigue, demonstrating the strategic thinking behind Byzantine palace design Private Tour Guide Turkey.
