Cultures > Thrace

Thrace

Background

Thrace was a civilization that existed in northern <Greece and while sharing a similar culture with that of the rest of Greece was different enough in many regards to classify them as unique.

It was later conquered by Philip II of neighboring Kingdom of Macedon and eventually the Roman Republics during its conquest of Greece.

Thrace, an ancient region located in southeastern Europe, encompassing parts of modern-day Bulgaria, Greece, and Turkey, played a significant role during the Hellenistic period and was influenced by Alexander the Great’s conquests. Here’s an exploration of the connections between Alexander the Great, the Hellenistic period, and Thrace:

Alexander the Great

1. Early Campaigns:

   • Background: Alexander the Great, before launching his major campaigns against the Persian Empire, secured his northern borders by dealing with threats from the Thracian tribes.
   • Campaign in Thrace (335 BCE): One of Alexander’s early military actions as king of Macedon was to campaign in Thrace. He aimed to suppress the rebellious Thracian tribes and secure his northern frontier. This campaign included battles such as the one against the Triballi near the Haemus Mons (modern-day Balkan Mountains).

2. Strategic Importance:

   • Control of Thrace: Securing Thrace was crucial for Alexander as it provided a stable northern frontier and allowed him to focus on his campaigns against the Persian Empire. Thrace’s strategic location made it a significant region for controlling trade routes and military movements.

Hellenistic Period

1. After Alexander’s Death:

   • Division of the Empire: After Alexander’s death in 323 BCE, his empire was divided among his generals, the Diadochi. Thrace initially came under the control of Lysimachus, one of Alexander’s generals.
   • Lysimachus’ Rule: Lysimachus established himself as the ruler of Thrace and expanded his territory to include parts of Asia Minor and Macedonia. His reign saw the further Hellenization of Thrace, including the establishment of Greek-style cities and institutions.

2. Hellenistic Influence in Thrace:

   • Urban Development: Under Hellenistic influence, several cities in Thrace were developed or expanded. These cities included Greek-style architecture, public buildings, theaters, and agoras (public squares).
   • Cultural Integration: Greek culture, language, and education were integrated into Thracian society. This cultural integration led to a blend of Greek and Thracian traditions.

Notable Cities and Sites in Thrace

1. Seuthopolis:

   • Foundation by Seuthes III: Seuthopolis was founded by Seuthes III, a Thracian king who ruled during the early Hellenistic period. The city was designed in a Greek-style layout with a central agora, residential quarters, and fortifications.
   • Archaeological Significance: Excavations of Seuthopolis have revealed a mix of Thracian and Greek influences in its urban planning and artifacts.

2. Philippopolis (Plovdiv):

   • Hellenistic City: Philippopolis, known today as Plovdiv, was another significant Hellenistic city in Thrace. It was initially established by Philip II of Macedon, Alexander’s father, and further developed during the Hellenistic period.
   • Cultural Center: The city became an important cultural and economic center, featuring Greek-style public buildings, temples, and theaters.

3. Bersepolis:

   • Lysimachus' Capital: Lysimachus established Bersepolis as his capital in Thrace. It served as an administrative center for his rule over Thrace and parts of Asia Minor.
   • Hellenistic Architecture: The city showcased Hellenistic architectural styles and urban planning, reflecting Lysimachus’ efforts to integrate Greek culture into Thrace.

Cultural and Economic Impact

1. Economic Prosperity:

   • Trade and Commerce: Thrace’s strategic location along major trade routes facilitated commerce between Europe and Asia. The region’s cities became important centers for the exchange of goods, including wine, grain, and metals.
   • Coinage: Thracian cities minted their own coins, which featured Greek motifs and inscriptions. These coins circulated widely and contributed to the region’s economic prosperity.

2. Cultural Syncretism:

   • Blend of Traditions: The Hellenistic period in Thrace was characterized by the blending of Greek and Thracian cultural elements. This syncretism was evident in art, religion, and daily life.
   • Religious Practices: Greek deities were worshipped alongside traditional Thracian gods, and temples dedicated to both Greek and Thracian deities were common.

Roman Period and Legacy

1. Integration into the Roman Empire:

   • Roman Conquest: In the 1st century BCE, Thrace was gradually incorporated into the Roman Empire. The region continued to thrive under Roman rule, benefiting from the stability and infrastructure improvements introduced by the Romans.
   • Urban Development: The Romans further developed Thracian cities, adding new buildings, roads, and public works that enhanced the region’s urban landscape.

2. Preservation of Hellenistic Heritage:

   • Cultural Continuity: Despite the Roman conquest, Thrace retained much of its Hellenistic cultural heritage. Greek language, education, and religious practices remained prominent in the region.
   • Archaeological Discoveries: Archaeological excavations in Thrace have uncovered significant remains from the Hellenistic period, including temples, theaters, and public buildings that illustrate the region’s cultural and architectural development.

Conclusion

Thrace played a significant role during the Hellenistic period, influenced by the conquests and cultural policies of Alexander the Great and his successors. The region’s strategic importance and its integration into the Hellenistic world led to significant cultural and economic developments. Thrace’s cities, such as Seuthopolis and Philippopolis, became centers of Greek culture and urbanization, reflecting the blend of Greek and Thracian traditions. The legacy of Hellenistic influence in Thrace continued under Roman rule, preserving its cultural heritage and contributing to the region’s historical significance.

Settlements in Thrace

Here's a comprehensive table of known ancient settlements in Thrace, including their latitude, longitude, year founded, estimated population, and modern location:

Key Points:

• Byzantium: Founded by Greek colonists, later became Constantinople and modern Istanbul.
• Perinthos (Heraclea): Known for its strong fortifications and as a significant port city.
• Philippopolis (Trimontium): Founded by Philip II of Macedon, a major cultural and economic center in ancient Thrace.
• Odessos: Important Greek colony on the Black Sea, known for trade and maritime activities.
• Mesembria: Known for its strategic location and rich archaeological heritage.
• Abdera: Founded by colonists from Clazomenae, known for its philosophers such as Democritus.
• Maroneia: Known for its wine production and strategic port location.
• Serdica: Became an important Roman city, now the capital of Bulgaria.
• Tomis: Known as the place of exile for the Roman poet Ovid.
• Apollonia Pontica: Important Greek colony, known for its temple of Apollo and large bronze statue.
• Seuthopolis: Capital of the Odrysian kingdom, known for its urban planning.
• Callatis: Known for its coinage and as a major trading center.
• Nicopolis ad Istrum: Founded by Emperor Trajan, significant for its urban architecture.
• Kabile: Important trading center, later a Roman military camp.

Hellenistic Cultures