Romans take the Greeks Helmet Ideas to New Heights

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Influenced by the Greeks, Romans also had a few similar designs to their helmets. There were few different types of Roman helmets as well, which included the Montefortino, Coolus and the Imperial-Gallic. The Montefortino helmets were worn by soldiers dating back to 4^th century B.C. to the 1^st century B.C. This particular helmet was actually designed after the Celts model, made from brass and conical in shape with a small extension on the back used as a neck guard. Based upon a Gallic form of helmet the Coolus helmet was made in the Coolus district of Marne during the 3^rd century B.C. to the 1^st century A.D. The Coolus’ pattern was made in bronze and copper; it was round in shape with a neck guard and had a spike plug-in for a plume. The Imperial Gallic helmet was worn by Roman soldiers during late 1^st century B.C. through 2^nd century A.D. These Gallic helmets included ear protectors and brass accents that were decorated around the helmet.

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

In the midst of ancient Rome, war was common, fighting to strengthen their empire, Romans needed to be prepared for anything during battle this called for strong armor which included the shield or “Scutum” (Latin word for shield). Roman soldiers often carried bore shields known as “aspidai” which was originally designed by the Greeks. The Roman scutum was known for its rectangular semi-cylindrical body, and was carried by the Roman Legion. By the end of the 3^rd century AD the scutum rectangular shield seemed to have vanished and fourth century finds indicate that the Romans used oval or round shields that were either bowl shaped or flat. Indications of this were also found in 3^rd century Roman artwork. During the 3^rd century Romans relied on this scutum or shield because it was their only source of defense because armor was limited back then, so the Romans became very skilled with their shields, concentrating on mainly defense.