Historical FigureByzantine500 – 590
Paulus Silentiarius
Byzantine poet, described Hagia Sophia in ekphrasis
Biography
A Byzantine poet and courtier of the 6th century AD who lived during the reign of Justinian I. He is known for his ekphrasis describing the Hagia Sophia.
Quick Facts
Category
Historical Figure
Nationality
Byzantine
Born
500
Died
590
Thinking about the name
Paulus
Latin origin
“The original Latin form of Paul, used directly in formal religious and scholarly contexts. Paulus evokes classical Rome and early Christianity with an air of formality and gravitas. It appeals to parents drawn to historical authenticity and the weight of classical education—the name of both the apostle and countless Renaissance scholars.”