What was the sack of Constantinople?

The Sack of Constantinople occurred in 1204 during the Fourth Crusade, when Crusader forces captured and plundered the Byzantine capital. Initially intended to aid the Byzantine Empire, the Crusaders diverted their campaign for political and financial gain. The city was ravaged, leading to significant destruction of its cultural and religious heritage. This event further weakened Byzantium, contributing to its eventual decline and the rise of the Latin Empire.