When Emperor Justinian I () made his nephew and heir Justin II curopalates in 552, however, the office took on new significance, and became one of the most exalted dignities, ranking next to Caesar and nobilissimus and, like them, reserved initially for members of the imperial family.
When Emperor Justinian I appointed his nephew and heir Justin II as curopalates in 552, the office gained prominence and became one of the most esteemed positions, ranking second only to Caesar and nobilissimus, and like them, was initially reserved for members of the imperial family.