Byzantine Greek is a historical form of the Greek language that was spoken and written during the Byzantine Empire, roughly from the 4th to the 15th centuries. It evolved from Koine Greek, the common language of the Hellenistic period, and incorporated elements from Latin and other languages due to the empire's diverse population. This language was used in various contexts, including literature, theology, and administration. Byzantine Greek is significant for its role in preserving ancient texts and for its influence on the development of modern Greek. It also played a crucial part in the transmission of knowledge during the Renaissance.