Sebastokrator Momchil

Sebastokrator Momchil is also known as Momchil the Voivode. He was a feudal ruler of Aegean Thrace and the Rhodope Mountains for several years. Momchil was Bulgarian by origin. At one time he served Byzantium, then entered Serbian service before attempting to establish himself as an independent ruler. He led a struggle in support of the local population against the Turks and Byzantines and died in battle against them. He came from the lands of the Bulgarians and became a renowned commander through his military achievements. The Wallachian-Bulgarian charters describe him as an "invincible and skilful soldier", possessed of courage that never deserted him. Momchil thus gained a reputation as an invincible commander whose exploits were celebrated in historical sources. Because of his appearance, combative character and bravery, he became a folklore hero riding a flying horse.