11.The kiratzides – Traveling Merchants

The caravans

Overland trade was primarily conducted through caravans. Vlach caravan leaders, known as kiratzides, traversed the Balkans along major rivers and their tributaries, ensuring access to water along their routes. They transported goods exported from the Ottoman Empire to Europe and returned with imported items. Some caravans focused solely on transporting goods, while others actively traded along the way, constantly changing their cargo until they reached their final destination.

Caravans were large, organized groups traveling together for safety, often comprising up to 150 pack animals, primarily mules with a few horses. In Moschopolis, a notable caravan run by local muleteers operated weekly and included as many as 300 pack animals. The lead animal carried a kyprokoudouno (a large brass bell), which acted as an audible guide, signaling the progress of the procession.