Byzantine Influence and Architectural Innovations

The video explores the rise of the Russian Empire, highlighting its vastness and the ambitions of its leaders. Ivan the Third's efforts to overthrow the Tatars and establish Russia as a dominant power are detailed. The origins of Russian cities, influenced by the Kiev Rus, and the strategic rise of Moscow during the Tatar invasion are discussed. Ivan's architectural innovations, particularly the construction of the Cathedral of the Assumption, showcase his engineering legacy.

What was a significant factor in the rise of the Russian Empire?

• Its small size and limited resources

• The influence of neighboring countries

• The visionaries with grand designs

• The lack of foreign technologies

What was Ivan the Third's major action against the Tatars?

• He formed an alliance with them

• He ignored their presence

• He increased the tribute paid to them

• He tore up the pact binding him to them

What was the significance of the Byzantine symbol adopted by Ivan the Third?

• It represented a new religion

• It was a symbol of peace

• It symbolized Russia's alliance with the Tatars

• It declared Russia as the third Rome

Where did the Kiev and Rus originate from?

• Scandinavia

• Ukraine

• Moscow

• Byzantium

What was the strategic move by Moscow's rulers during the Tatar invasion?

• They fled the city

• They allied with the Tatars

• They rebuilt the city better

• They surrendered to the Tatars

What was Ivan the Third's architectural legacy in Moscow?

• The use of traditional Russian designs

• The construction of wooden forts

• The introduction of Byzantine architecture

• The building of the Cathedral of the Assumption

What was a key feature of Fioravanti's construction technique?

• Employing siege technology for demolition

• Building without any foundation

• Using heavy stone for the entire structure

• Avoiding any foreign influence

How did Fioravanti ensure the stability of the Cathedral's walls?

• By using wooden beams

• By stacking limestone blocks without mortar

• By arranging limestone blocks in an interlocking bond

• By using only local materials

What innovation did Fioravanti introduce for the Cathedral's ceilings?

• Introducing iron tie rods

• Avoiding any support structures

• Building with heavy stone

• Using wooden ceilings

What material did Fioravanti use for the Cathedral's upper structure?

• Lighter and sturdier brick

• Wood

• Metal

• Heavy stone