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How did Byzantine art influence Italy, Sicily, Russia, and eastern Europe?

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Hagia Sophia: mosaic — Byzantine Empire The Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child (centre), Justinian (left) holding a model of the Hagia Sophia, and Constantine (right) holding a model of the city of Constantinople; mosaic from the Hagia Sophia, 9th century.

Byzantine art exerted a profound influence across Europe, primarily through trade, conquest, and the expansion of the Eastern Orthodox church.1

Italy and Sicily

In Italy and Sicily, Byzantine forms were introduced and persisted in modified ways through the 12th century. These styles became formative influences on Italian Renaissance art. In Sicily, the mingling of Byzantine, Muslim, and local traditions resulted in unique architectural and decorative achievements, such as the mosaics found in the Cathedral of Monreale.12

Russia and Eastern Europe

Byzantine influence was particularly significant in the development of Orthodox states in Russia, Bulgaria, and the western Balkans.3
* Russia: Byzantine models provided the foundation for a distinct national art that flourished until the late 17th century. While initially adhering to rigid Byzantine patterns, Russian icon painting gradually evolved to incorporate local characteristics, such as brighter palettes and native architectural settings.345
* Eastern Europe: In regions like the Balkans and Ukraine, Byzantine iconography and styles remained central to religious expression, continuing even after the fall of Constantinople in 1453.53