Subsequent to the loss of its independence from the romans, Samos entered in an era of decadence. This state of things continued throughout the first period of the Byzantine Empire and even if the historical sources for this period are scarce, it is believed that the population of the island diminished dramatically. Samos was raided by pirates during the reign of Ioulianos (361-363 AD) by Goths, Alanans (5th century AD), Slavs (6th century AD) and Arab Saracens the 7th century. The 7th century AD the heirs of Heraklios took over the administrative and military restructuring of the empire and created a mighty fleet. They introduced the institution of Themata. These were military units permanently stationed to different areas of the Empire responsible for its defense. Land was given to the soldiers so they did not only defend the Empire but their homes and land too. The 9th century AD the naval Thema of Samos was created, which controlled the opposite coasts of Asia Minor. The Thema of Samos took part in the campaigns against the Saracens and especially at the liberation of Crete from Nikiphoros Phokas the 961 AD. In 1312 the Turks attack repeatedly the island and its inhabitants find security in the mountainous castles of Lazaros and Loulouda. After the disastrous earthquake of 1476 the inhabitants of the island flee from Samos. In 1546 the French traveler Pier Belon passed through Samos and reported in his journal that he did not come across any village in the island and that there were only shepherds in the highlands.

Flag of the Byzantine Empire       Byzantine warship       Flag of the Byzantine Fleet