some quotes of Constantine Palaiologos
To surrender the City to you is beyond my authority or anyone else's who lives in it, for all of us, after taking the mutual decision, shall die out of free will without sparing our lives.
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, Answer to Mohammed II
God forbid that I should live an Emperor without an Empire. As my city falls, I will fall with it.
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, (May 29, 1453)
Whoever wished to escape, let him save himself if he can; and whoever is ready to face death, let him follow me!
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, (May 29, 1453)
Man has to be ready to face death when he has to fight for his faith, for his country, for his family or for his sovereign. All four reasons are now present.
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, speaking to his soldiers, May 29, 1453
Ι surrender to you the famous city and country of ours, the Queen of Cities.
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, speaking to his soldiers, May 29, 1453
We have only two things; firstly our faith to the invincible glory of God, and secondly our own hands and brawniness, that were give to us by Divine Power.
Constantine XI Palaiologos, Last Roman Emperor, speaking to his soldiers, May 29, 1453