Pilgrim’s Book

work by Anthony of Novgorod

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July 1, 2026

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The Pilgrim's Book is a significant work by Anthony of Novgorod, a monk and archbishop of Novgorod in the 13th century. Written around 1200, it is the earliest known cultural and architectural chronicle of Constantinople before its pillage during the Fourth Crusade. The book offers unique insights into the city's archaeology and religious culture in the late 12th century, including a summary of the Greek Orthodox liturgy at Hagia Sophia. Anthony's diplomatic and commercial dealings with the West also contribute to his historical importance.1

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Anthony Of Novgorod
…importance derives mainly from his Pilgrim’s Book, written during a visit to Constantinople about 1200. The book is unique for information on late 12th-century Constantinople and as the most comprehensive source on its archaeology and religious culture before the French and Venetian pillage (1204) during the Fourth Crusade.
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…importance derives mainly from his Pilgrim’s Book, written during a visit to Constantinople about 1200. The book is unique for information on late 12th-century Constantinople and as the most comprehensive source on its archaeology and religious culture before the French and Venetian pillage (1204) during the Fourth Crusade.
Read More