Silk manufacturing in Thebes began in the 11th century by local female weavers. From the early 12th century, with the arrival of Jews who were specialized in dyeing and processing raw silk, Thebes surpassed Constantinople itself in fame. There is evidence on export of silk textiles up to the end of the 14th century. According to coin evidence, the workshops found in Thebes were in operation until that time.

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Jewish presence in Boeotia dates back as far as the 1st century AD. During the Byzantine era, the Jewish community of Thebes flourished culturally and financially, as the Jews distinguished themselves as silk producers and dyers. This prosperity continued into the periods of Frankish rule, Ottoman rule and well into the 19th century, when the Jewish community of Thebes ceased to exist after centuries of uninterrupted historical presence.

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John Kaloktenis, metropolitan of Thebes, can be listed as one of the most important personalities of the Church during the second half of the 12th century. He was a reformer of the Boeotian Church at a very difficult time and his rich social work was an essential contribution to the amelioration of living conditions as well to the moral uplift of the local society. He is considered the patron saint of Thebes and his feast day is celebrated on 29 April.

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