Roman Heavy Cavalry (2): AD 500-1450

In the 5th–6th centuries, the elite of the field armies was the heavy armoured cavalry, the cataphracts, clad in lamellar, scale, mail, and padded fabric armour. After the fall of the West, the Greek-speaking Eastern or Byzantine Empire survived for nearly a thousand years, and cavalry remained predominant in its armies, with the heaviest armoured regiments continuing to provide the ultimate shock-force in battle.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In the twilight of the Western Roman Empire, from the 5th to the 6th centuries, the elite of the field armies consisted of heavy armoured cavalry known as cataphracts. These formidable warriors were adorned in lamellar, scale, mail, and padded fabric armour, providing them with formidable protection against their enemies.

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the Greek-speaking Eastern or Byzantine Empire endured for nearly a thousand years. Cavalry remained a dominant force in its armies, with the heaviest armoured regiments continuing to serve as the ultimate shock-force in battle. Accounts from Muslim chroniclers depict the ironclad cataphract, mounted on his armoured horse, as an awe-inspiring adversary. They advanced against their enemies, their bodies covered in iron, resembling horses with no legs.

This captivating new study, accompanied by stunning full-colour illustrations of various units, offers an insightful glimpse into the formidable heavy cavalry units that engaged in combat against the enemies of the Eastern Empire of Rome. The author delves into the history, equipment, and tactics of these elite soldiers, shedding light on their role in shaping the course of medieval warfare. Through detailed descriptions and visual representations, readers gain a deeper understanding of the bravery and skill required to operate in these heavy cavalry units.

The cataphracts played a crucial role in the defense and expansion of the Byzantine Empire. Their armoured formations were highly effective in breaking enemy lines, allowing the Byzantines to launch devastating counterattacks. The heavy cavalry units also served as a mobile strike force, capable of swiftly deploying to strategic locations and disrupting enemy operations.

Despite their formidable capabilities, the cataphracts were not without their weaknesses. They were expensive to maintain and required specialized training and equipment. Additionally, the weight of their armour and weapons could limit their mobility, making them vulnerable to fast-moving enemy forces.

Despite these challenges, the cataphracts remained a vital component of the Byzantine army for centuries. Their reputation as fearsome warriors and their ability to strike fear into the hearts of their opponents helped to maintain the empire's stability and prosperity.

In conclusion, the heavy armoured cavalry known as cataphracts played a significant role in the twilight of the Western Roman Empire and the subsequent Eastern or Byzantine Empire. These elite soldiers were adorned in formidable armour and mounted on powerful horses, providing them with the means to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies. Through this new study, we gain a deeper appreciation for the bravery and skill of these heavy cavalry units and their contribution to the history of medieval warfare.

Weight: 220g
Dimension: 186 x 247 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472839503