Бележки за царската власт в Тракия
Notes for the Royal Power in Thrace

Summary/Abstract: The article examines the genesis of the aristocratic establishment of archaeological data, written testimonies and the powers of the ruler’s institution in the Thracian kingdoms. The conclusions reached are that the figure of the ruler in Thracian society embodies a centralized socio-political device in which the king carries the judicial, military and religious power. At the same time, the monarchical organization of the Thracian kingdoms can be defined as “soft”, as it does not overcome the system of local rulers. The “soft monarchical organization” is supported by the markedly aristocratic way of life that has impressed the Greek settlers who founded colonies along the Thracian coasts, especially those who came into contact with the Thracians along the North Aegean coast.Monarchy as an aristocratic form of government is the prerogative of those important because of their bloodline or riches, conforming to traditional norms of life. This also applies to the Odrysian kingdom, despite the evidence of the para-dynastic status reported by Thucydides (Thuc., 2.97.2–3). The Thracian aristocratic establishment does not rule based on ethnic consciousness. Self-determination is based on common traditions, rituals and beliefs, and on belonging to a territory governed by a dynastic clan. The article also looks at the Thracian kingdoms as economic regions, not just as state formations formed solely by the force of coercion, which gives a clearer picture of the need for the military aristocracy to protect them. Key words: Thrace, royal power, powers of the ruler’s institution, Thracian aristocracy, soft monarchical organization.

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