At the turn of the first quarter-century of the 11th century, the Byzantine Empire was the most powerful and richest state in Europe, the Near and the Middle East. Four decades later, this astonishing edifice found itself on the verge of destruction. Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes desperately tried to put an end to the decline and collapse.

- Why was the Byzantine army allowed to disintegrate, and what was the heavy price?

- How did the Seljuk Turks manage to spread devastation in their wake?

- Was Romanos IV Diogenes a capable emperor or just a common adventurer?

- How did a brilliant mind bring down an empire?

- What led to the Battle of Manzikert? How was it lost, and what were its consequences for medieval Hellenism?

- Ultimately, was Asia Minor lost out of negligence or weakness?

These are some of the questions answered in this book. Through the lens of the emperor, the circumstances and challenges he faced are highlighted. The tactical situation before each battle is examined, as well as the motivations, intentions, and mistakes of Romanos IV Diogenes that led him to risk everything on the dusty battlefield of Manzikert.