Throughout its long history, the Byzantine Empire, with its monetary economy, was normally able to pay its soldiers cash wages when they were on campaign. However, the government did not normally pay for their equipment, or look after them when they were not on active service. It was therefore up to them to support themselves on a regular basis from the rural economy. Continue reading “‘Stratiotika ktemata’ (military landholdings) – The Novel of Emperor Nikephoros II Phokas” →