Medieval Lviv and astrological traditions of the Byzantine imperial court (to the problem of spreading of alien religious practices at the court of Galician ancient rulers)
Abstract
The full text of the inscription in Latin, which was placed above the entrance to the
Halych gate of Early Medieval L’viv is firstly analyzed at the paper. Taking into ac -
count the mention of the term «Horoscope» and zodiac sign of Leo at this inscription in
the context of «establishment/foundation» of L’viv, the author concluded that was the
probability of presence of astrological and, perhaps, cult practices during the process of
dedication (?) of L’viv as a city. At the article the problem of existence of astrologers
(astrological schools?) at courts of Halychian kings/princes of XII−XIII centuries is also
firstly outlined. These astrologers could came here first at the escort (as courtiers) of noble
Byzantine officials during the conclusion of interdynasty Rus'Byzantine marriages and as
members of diplomatic missions. The final wave of penetration of astrological knowledge
and astrologers themselves from Byzantium to Halychian Rus' could take place after the
capture of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204.
Keywords: Halychian Rus’; L’viv; XII−XIII centuries, astrology, Byzantium
