Prytanys

Prytanys refers to a specific office or council within ancient Greek city-states, most notably Athens. The members of the prytany were known as prytanes. This body served as the executive committee of the boule, the council of citizens that prepared legislation for the assembly. The prytanes were selected by lot from the members of the boule and served for a tenth of the year, as the boule was divided into ten sections, each representing one of the ten Athenian tribes. The prytany was responsible for overseeing the daily affairs of the city, presiding over meetings of the boule and the assembly, and carrying out decisions made by these bodies. They also had custody of the state archives and the keys to the public buildings. The position of prytanis was a significant one, offering considerable influence and responsibility. The office was designed to ensure a rotation of leadership and prevent any single group from holding power indefinitely.