Thrakesion

   Important theme in western Asia Minor (qq.v.). Its name derived from its original army corps, which was transferred from Thrace (q.v.), probably in the late seventh century. The theme's importance lay in its location, defending the rich cities of the Aegean coast, including Ephesos (qq.v.), against attacks by the Arabs, and later by the Turks (qq.v.). Its importance is also demonstrated by the quality of its strategoi (q.v.), who included Michael Lachanodrakon and Petronas (qq.v.).