The 8th century is often cited as the beginning of the Byzantine Renaissance. This period marks a period when learning, art and culture were revived, and great importance was given to the preservation and copying of ancient texts. The 8th century saw a number of important church councils, including the Second Council of Nicaea in 787, which addressed the issue of icon veneration and contributed to resolving the Iconoclasm dispute. The 8th century in the Byzantine Empire was marked by a complex interplay of religious, political and military developments, leaving a lasting impact on the history of the empire and the Eastern Mediterranean region.
