grand logothete

The grand logothete was a high-ranking official in the Byzantine government, particularly prominent from the 6th to the 14th century. This role evolved over time, with various officials known as logothetes sharing responsibilities that included tax collection and foreign policy direction.1

By the 11th century, the grand logothete headed the entire civil service. This official could even represent the emperor's religious interests, as seen when George Acropolites accepted Roman Catholic orthodoxy on behalf of Emperor Michael VIII Palaeologus in 1274. By the 14th and 15th centuries, these offices became largely honorary titles. The term "logothete" itself referred to various administrators under Byzantine emperors.12