Robin Pierson

Historian Robin Pierson, host of the History of Byzantium podcast, dives into the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions in Byzantine culture. He explores the transition from pagan festivals to Christian observances during Justinian's reign. Robin shares insights on church attendance, the joyful yet solemn nature of celebrations, and the popular kalanda caroling. He discusses the East–West differences in Christian practices, the origins of iconoclasm, and the impact of Byzantine iconography on faith. The conversation offers a fascinating glimpse into how history shaped the holiday.