New Byzantine Seals from Morava (Margum) and Braničevo (Novi vizantijski pečati iz Morave (Margum) i Braničeva), Starinar LXVIII, 2018, 111–124. (original) (raw)

Abstract

The authors present new finds of Byzantine lead seals at Morava (Margum), Braničevo and the broader area around them. The seals from Morava and Braničevo were unearthed in the course of archaeological excavations, which make these finds particularly important. Significant among them is the seal from Morava, which belonged to Symeon (?), magister and logothete of the dromos, from the end of the tenth century, which indicates the presence of Byzantine officials in Morava and the establishment of Byzantine authority along the north-western Danubian border following the fall of the Bulgarian empire in 971. Three new seals from Braničevo complement the list of Byzantine officials in connection with the events on the Danubian border in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. The seals found in the broader area of Braničevo should also be added to this list. Of particular significance among them is the seal of Georgios Palaiologos Doukas Komnenos, megas hetaireiarches, a well known historical figure involved in events in Hungary, Serbia and on the Danubian border in the 1160s

Key takeaways

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AI

  1. The seals from Morava and Braničevo indicate Byzantine authority post-Bulgaria's fall in 971.
  2. Symeon, magister and logothete, signifies Byzantine administrative presence in Morava by late tenth century.
  3. Georgios Palaiologos Doukas Komnenos played a crucial diplomatic role in Hungary during the twelfth century.
  4. Nine new Byzantine seals date from the late tenth to twelfth centuries, reflecting regional governance.
  5. Archaeological excavations reveal the strategic significance of Morava and Braničevo in Byzantine military operations.

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References (132)

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FAQs

sparkles

AI

What archaeological techniques revealed the importance of Morava's fortifications?add

Excavations and LiDAR have shown significant destruction of Morava's fortifications due to river shifts. This complicates understanding its historical significance and size.

How do the seals from Morava inform Byzantine administrative structures?add

Recent finds, including seals of Symeon, magistros, highlight a Byzantine presence at the northwestern Danubian border post-971. They support the thesis of active Byzantine administration and control in the region.

What does the discovery of Symeon's seal suggest about Byzantine diplomacy?add

The seal indicates that logothetes tou dromou were involved in imperial diplomacy, managing foreign emissaries. This underscores the strategic role of Morava in wider Byzantine political and military efforts.

How did Braničevo's location influence its historical significance during Byzantine rule?add

Braničevo's fortifications and position on the Danube played crucial roles in military operations towards Hungary. Its administrative importance is echoed in the appointment of officials like Andronikos Komnenos as doux.

What evidence connects Byzantine seals to the broader geopolitical context of the region?add

Seals from Braničevo and Morava reflect diplomatic relations and military strategies, particularly during Tzimiskes’ campaigns. This highlights the integration of these towns into the Byzantine imperial structure from the late 10th century.

Last updatedOctober 11, 2025