Abstract
The author discusses the development and religious significance of the cult of the Thracian Hero (a local deity depicted as a rider on a horse) using the example of Odessos - an ancient Greek and later Roman city. The aim of the article is to explain the origin of this cult, its connections with the Thracian tradition and the changes that occurred under the influence of Greek and Roman culture. The author used the historical and archaeological method. He analysed the remains of religious buildings, votive monuments, reliefs and the results of excavations. He paid special attention to the sanctuary of the Hero of Thrace and Bendida, discovered in the southwestern part of the city. He discussed its location, plan and furnishings, especially the marble reliefs and terracotta figurines found there. According to the researcher, this place functioned as a cult centre before the arrival of Greek colonists. After they founded Odessos, it retained its role - Bendida was identified with Artemis, and elements of Thracian religion penetrated the Greek world. The analysis of archaeological material confirms the wide spread of the cult of the Thracian Hero in the city and its coexistence with the cults of Greek and Roman deities. This process reflected the phenomenon of religious syncretism typical of the Balkan provinces. According to the author, the cult of the Thracian Hero retained its distinctiveness and at the same time was adapted to the changed socio-cultural conditions.
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