Zagoria (theme)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Theme of Zagoria (Greek: Θέμα Ζαγορίων) or the Theme of Melenikon was a administrative division (Theme) of the Byzantine Empire, created during the 11th century.
The Theme was mentioned in a chrysobull of Alexios II Komnenos in 1198.[1] The capital of the Theme was the fortified city of Melenikon (Melnik), in modern-day Bulgaria, and it was created during the rule of Basil II from territories detached from the Theme of Strymon.[1] The Theme was situated between the Themes of Triaditsa and Velevousdou, Ohrid, Serres and it contained the territory of the historical region of Zagoria, in southwestern Bulgaria.[1]
Known commanders:[2]
- Theodoros Nestongos, Ioannis Angelos and Dragotas - 1255
- Michael Laskaris Metochites - 1321
- Nikephoros Basilikos - 1328
- Ioannis Asan - 1342