The Thracians

Between the 6th century BCE and 183 BCE, the Thracians were instrumental in molding the cultural and political scene of Varna, which was referred to as Odessos back then. Once home to the Thracian tribes like the Getae and Krobyzoi, this region played a pivotal role in the Thracian tribal network, celebrated for its warrior elite, burial mounds (tumuli), and vibrant religious traditions. In 585 BCE, Greek colonists made their mark by establishing Odessos, choosing to settle over a vibrant and flourishing Thracian community that was already in place. Instead of pushing the natives aside, a slow and steady blending of cultures took place. The Thracian nobility took part in trade and governance with the Greeks, playing a key role in shaping the city’s unique hybrid identity.

Archaeological discoveries—such as ceramics in the Thracian style, coins featuring the iconic Thracian horseman, and intricate tombs found in the Franga Plateau—showcase their enduring impact. Thracian beliefs wove their way into local religious practices, with cults like that of Zalmoxis leaving a mark on both the locals and the thinking of later Romans. By 183 BCE, Odessos finds itself under the sway of Thracian rule, a time that signifies the zenith of local authority before the complete takeover by the Romans.

The Thracians were more than just the first inhabitants of the region; they were the cultural guardians who played a pivotal role in transforming Odessos into a distinctive urban fusion of Thracian strength and Hellenistic elegance.

Varna its Thracian Origins Timeline

• Pre-7th Century BCE: The Thracian Getae and Krobyzoi tribes inhabit the territory around modern-day Varna.
  • The area was rich in natural resources (forests, rivers, salt, and gold), which supported local tribal economies.
  • Evidence of Thracian tumuli (burial mounds) and sanctuaries are found in and around Varna — especially in the Franga Plateau region.

Circa. 585 BCE: Founding of Odessos

• Greek colonists (likely from Miletus or Ionia) establish Odessos as a trading post and port.
  • The site was already a Thracian settlement and trading point, with local Thracians playing a critical role in early urbanization.
  • Co-existence and Hellenization of Thracians occur rather than displacement.

5th – 3rd Century BCE: Thracian-Odessite Interaction

• Odessos flourishes as a multi-ethnic port city.
• Coins minted in Odessos show Thracian horsemen motifs, symbolizing fusion of Thracian and Greek cultures.
• Thracian kings like Cotys I (Odrysian kingdom) interact diplomatically and militarily with Odessos.

341 BCE: Philip II of Macedon besieges Odessos

• The city likely had Thracian allies or defenders; the surrounding territory was still Thracian-dominated.
• A temporary tribute-based autonomy is established after siege ends.

1st Century BCE – 1st Century CE: Roman Conquest

• Odessos is absorbed into the Roman province of Moesia, but Thracian identity survives in rural areas.
• Romanised Thracians remain an important demographic component in Varna’s hinterland.

• Varna Archaeological Museum