How did the Byzantine use relics?

The Byzantine Empire utilized relics, which were physical remains or personal effects of saints, as powerful symbols of religious devotion and authority. They were often housed in ornate reliquaries and displayed in churches, attracting pilgrims and fostering a sense of connection to the divine. Relics served not only as objects of veneration but also as tools for political legitimacy, as possessing a significant relic could enhance an emperor's or church's standing. Additionally, relics were believed to possess miraculous properties, offering healing and protection to the faithful.