The book by the outstanding Russian Byzantine scholar Alexander Petrovich Kazhdan (1922–1997) provides a comprehensive picture of the life of the Byzantine Empire in the 10th–12th centuries. This was a period of economic and cultural prosperity, a time when what constituted the essence of Byzantinism was basically formed. The reader will get an idea of the diverse internal connections in the life of Byzantium, will become acquainted with its various aspects, ranging from natural and material conditions to aesthetic views and theological disputes. The work combines strict scientific knowledge with intelligibility and clarity of presentation. It will be read with enthusiasm not only by specialists, but also by everyone interested in the problems of Byzantine history and culture. The new edition of the book is supplied with additional materials, including the preface by A.P. Kazhdan to the latest edition of “Byzantine Culture” in Italian.