Byzantine Cataphract Hellenic Armors A cataphract was a form of armored heavy cavalry that originated in persia and was fielded in ancient warfare throughout eurasia and northern africa . historically, the cataphract was a very heavily armored horseman, with both the rider and mount almost completely covered in scale armor or lamellar armour over chain mail, and typically wielding. The cataphract was one of the most iconic warriors of ancient and medieval times. these heavily armored cavalrymen were used by various armies throughout history, from the persians to the byzantines, and were known for their formidable defensive capabilities and devastating charges. in this article, we will explore the history of the cataphract.
Byzantine Cataphract Hellenic Armors The byzantine army was the primary military body of the byzantine armed forces, serving alongside the byzantine navy. a direct continuation of the eastern roman army, shaping and developing itself on the legacy of the late hellenistic armies, [ 1] it maintained a similar level of discipline, strategic prowess and organization. Origins of the cataphract. the word ‘cataphract’ has its origins in the greek language, and is said to mean ‘fully armored’ or ‘closed from all sides’. the cataphract, however, was not a greek ‘product’, and was only adopted by the armies of the seleucid empire sometime during the 4th century b.c., after they went on military. Kremasmata, or thigh guards. the majority of byzantine corselets of all the types seen in images of the warrior saints are often depicted by a range of short skirt made up of loosely hanging strips or iverted lamellae, which covers the groin and the tops of the legs above the knees. “kremasmata” literally means in greek “ to hang or being. A vital part of the empire’s military strength was its focus on developing resilient and functional armor. this armor, designed with utmost precision, provided an essential line of defense for byzantine warriors. but, it was more than just a shield. it was a symbol of the empire’s technological advancement and resourcefulness.
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