In 820, a Byzantine emperor was assassinated while singing in a palace chapel
In a shocking breach of sanctuary, Byzantine Emperor Leo V was cut down by assassins disguised as monks while he sang hymns during a Christmas morning service in the palace chapel.
Emperor Leo V believed he was safe within the walls of the Church of the Virgin of the Pharos on Christmas Day in 820. However, supporters of his former friend, Michael the Amorian, smuggled weapons into the chapel under monastic robes.
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