The Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, fielded a formidable army that played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. From the depths of the 4th century to the twilight of the 15th century, these Eastern Roman units showcased unparalleled skill, discipline, and innovation on the battlefields of a vast and tumultuous world. Their legacy continues to inspire military strategists and historians to this day.
Among the Eastern Roman Empire’s most renowned units were the Scholae Palatinae, elite cavalry regiments that served as the personal guard of the emperor. These highly trained and heavily armored horsemen were the backbone of the Byzantine army, specializing in both close-quarters combat and lightning-fast cavalry charges. Their presence on the battlefield often struck terror into the hearts of their enemies, and their unwavering loyalty to the emperor made them a formidable force.
In addition to the Scholae Palatinae, the Eastern Roman Empire also boasted a number of highly effective infantry units. The Excubitores were a regiment of elite foot soldiers who guarded the imperial palace and accompanied the emperor on his campaigns. They were known for their exceptional discipline and their ability to execute complex maneuvers with precision. The Legiones Palatinae were another formidable unit, heavily armed and trained to fight in a variety of formations. Their unwavering resolve and ability to withstand enemy onslaughts made them a cornerstone of the Byzantine army.
The Cataphracts: Eastern Rome’s Armored Elite
The cataphracts, also known as the “ironclad” cavalry, were the elite heavy cavalry of the Eastern Roman Empire. They played a crucial role in the military successes of the empire, particularly against the mounted archers of the Sassanid Empire and the nomadic tribes of the steppes.
The cataphracts were heavily armored, with both the rider and their horse clad in scale or lamellar armor. Their weapons included a long spear and a sword. They were trained to fight in close formation, using the weight of their horses and the protection of their armor to charge through enemy lines.
The cataphracts were organized into tagmata, or regiments, each commanded by a tribune. The tagmata were often named after their founder or a particular region of the empire. The most famous tagmata were the Scholae Palatinae, the elite guard unit of the emperor.
The cataphracts were a formidable force on the battlefield. Their armor and weaponry made them almost invulnerable to enemy attacks, and their skill in close combat made them devastating against both infantry and cavalry.
However, the cataphracts were also very expensive to maintain. Their armor and weapons were costly, and their horses required specialized training and care. As a result, the cataphracts were used sparingly, only in the most important battles.
| Unit | Armor | Weapons | Organization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cataphracts | Scale and lamellar | Spear and sword | Tagmata |
The Tagmata: The Emperor’s Personal Guard
The Tagmata were the elite professional soldiers of the Eastern Roman Empire, composed of various units that served as the personal guard of the Emperor and the core of the Empire’s military strength. These highly trained and well-equipped units played a crucial role in the defense of the Empire against both internal and external threats.
Types of Tagmata Units
The Tagmata consisted of several types of units, each with its own specialized functions and equipment. Some of the most prominent Tagmata units included:
- Scholarii: The most prestigious unit, serving as the Emperor’s personal bodyguard and escort.
- Excubitores: A mounted unit responsible for guarding the imperial palace and the Emperor during nighttime.
- Vigiles: An infantry unit that patrolled the streets of Constantinople and provided firefighting services.
- Arithmos: A combined unit of infantry and cavalry, responsible for guarding the imperial frontiers and conducting punitive expeditions.
Organization and Command
The Tagmata were organized into regiments known as scholae, each numbering around 500-700 men. These scholae were commanded by tribunes, who reported directly to the Emperor. The overall command of the Tagmata was held by the Domestic of the Excubitors, a senior military official who played a significant role in both military and political affairs within the Empire.
| Unit | Role |
|---|---|
| Scholarii | Emperor’s personal bodyguard and escort |
| Excubitores | Guard the imperial palace and the Emperor during nighttime |
| Vigiles | Patrol the streets of Constantinople and provide firefighting services |
| Arithmos | Guard the imperial frontiers and conduct punitive expeditions |
The Varangian Guard: Scandinavian Warriors in Byzantine Service
The Varangian Guard, also known as the “Varingoi,” was an elite unit of the Byzantine Imperial Guard established in the 10th century. Comprising Scandinavian warriors from various regions, including Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, the Varangians became renowned for their exceptional skill and loyalty to the Byzantine emperor.
Recruitment and Training
Scandinavian warriors were highly sought after as mercenaries due to their reputation for ferocity and military prowess. They were recruited through independent agreements with local leaders or by direct contact with the Byzantine emperor. Upon joining the guard, the Varangians underwent rigorous training to enhance their combat skills and discipline.
Organization and Hierarchy
The Varangian Guard was organized into a hierarchal structure, with the Akolouthos (commander) at the top. The guard was divided into smaller units known as “hetaeria,” each led by a hetaireiarches. The Varangians were also assigned to various duties within the palace, such as guarding the imperial chambers and protecting the emperor during military campaigns.
Combat Skills and Tactics
| Weapon | Description |
|---|---|
| Battle Axe | Two-handed weapon with a wide, curved blade |
| Sword | Double-edged, single-handed weapon |
| Spear | Long, thrusting weapon with a steel tip |
| Bow and Arrow | Used for ranged combat |
The Varangians were highly skilled in both melee and ranged combat. They were renowned for their use of the double-edged battle axe, which they wielded with deadly efficiency. Their training also included the use of swords, spears, and bows and arrows, giving them a versatile and formidable fighting force.
The Clibanarii: Heavily Armored Cavalry
The Clibanarii were a fearsome heavy cavalry unit that served as the elite of the Eastern Roman Empire’s armies. Their name is derived from the clibanion, a type of scale armor that they wore. Clibanarii were heavily armored from head to toe, their armor consisting of a mail shirt, plated cuirass, greaves, and a helmet with a face guard. They were armed with a straight sword and a bow, and their horses were also covered in armor, giving them the appearance of almost impenetrable moving fortresses.
Tactics and Strategy
Clibanarii employed a variety of tactics in battle. They could charge as a heavy shock cavalry unit, breaking through enemy lines with their weight and armor. They could also act as mounted archers, harassing the enemy from afar with their bows. Their heavy armor made them highly resistant to enemy missiles and melee attacks, allowing them to withstand prolonged engagements.
Organization and Deployment
Clibanarii were typically organized into regiments of 200-500 men. They were often deployed as a reserve force or as the vanguard of an army, serving to demoralize the enemy and break through their formations. Their heavy armor and firepower made them especially effective against lighter cavalry and infantry units.
| Unit | Armor | Weapons |
|---|---|---|
| Clibanarius | Scale armor, plated cuirass, greaves, helmet | Straight sword, bow |
The Archers: Masters of Horseriding and Archery
Eastern Roman Empire was blessed with a formidable cavalry, and the archers were its most skilled and respected component. These mounted warriors hailed from the steppe tribes to the east, and they brought with them a unique set of skills that made them a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.
Unparalleled Horsemanship
The archers of the Eastern Roman Empire were renowned for their exceptional horsemanship. From a young age, they were trained to ride and control their mounts with unparalleled precision. Their ability to maneuver their horses at high speeds, even in the midst of battle, gave them an incredible advantage over their opponents.
Devastating Archery Skills
In addition to their horsemanship, the archers were also masters of archery. They employed a unique style of shooting, known as the “Parthian shot,” which allowed them to fire their arrows while retreating. This tactic proved highly effective, as it enabled them to inflict heavy casualties on enemy forces while remaining out of reach of melee weapons.
Effective Armor and Equipment
The archers wore a combination of light and heavy armor, which provided them with protection from enemy arrows and swords. They carried composite bows, made from layers of wood, bone, and sinew, which were capable of firing arrows over great distances.
Table of Archer Equipment
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Composite Bow | Capable of firing arrows over great distances |
| Iron Arrowheads | Inflicted devastating wounds |
| Lamellar Armor | Lightweight and flexible, providing protection from arrows |
| Chain Mail Cuirass | Covered the chest and back, offering defense from swords and spears |
Formidable in Battle
The archers of the Eastern Roman Empire were a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Their exceptional horsemanship, combined with their deadly archery skills, made them a nightmare for opposing armies. They were particularly effective in skirmishes and raiding parties, where their mobility and long-range firepower gave them a significant advantage.
The Spearmen: Infantry Backbone of the Empire
The Eastern Roman Empire relied heavily on its spearmen as the cornerstone of its infantry forces. These skilled and disciplined soldiers played a crucial role in countless battles, forming the backbone of the empire’s defense against its numerous enemies.
Recruitment and Training
Spearmen were typically recruited from the free peasant class, with a preference for men with physical strength and agility. They underwent rigorous training, which included extensive drills in close-order combat, spear-fighting techniques, and endurance exercises.
Equipment and Tactics
Eastern Roman spearmen were equipped with a variety of weapons and armor. Their primary weapon was the spathion, a long-bladed spear with a leaf-shaped head that could both thrust and slash. They also carried a short sword or dagger for close-quarters combat and a large wooden shield for protection.
Deployment and Formations
Spearmen typically formed the front line of the Eastern Roman battle formations, arranged in dense ranks and columns. They advanced in a disciplined and coordinated manner, presenting an impenetrable wall of spears that could shatter enemy formations.
Variations and Specializations
There were several variations of spearmen within the Eastern Roman army, each with its own specialization:
- Limitanei: Frontier guards who manned the empire’s borders and served as the first line of defense against incursions.
- Comitatenses: Mobile field armies that fought alongside the limitanei and formed the core of the empire’s expeditionary forces.
- Scholae: Elite palace guards who served as the emperor’s personal bodyguard and were known for their exceptional skill and loyalty.
Effectiveness and Legacy
The Eastern Roman spearmen proved to be a formidable force, playing a vital role in the empire’s success. Their discipline, training, and equipment made them a well-rounded and effective infantry unit capable of facing a wide range of enemies. The legacy of the Eastern Roman spearmen lives on, influencing military tactics and weaponry for centuries to come.
The Dromons: Byzantine Naval Powerhouses
The dromons were the backbone of the Byzantine navy, and they were instrumental in many of the empire’s victories. They were fast, maneuverable, and well-armed, and they could carry a large number of troops. The dromons were also equipped with a variety of weapons, including catapults, ballistae, and Greek fire.
Construction and Design
The dromons were typically around 100 feet long and 20 feet wide. They were constructed with a single mast and a single sail, and they were powered by a crew of around 100 rowers. The dromons were also equipped with a variety of weapons, including catapults, ballistae, and Greek fire.
Combat Capabilities
The dromons were very effective in combat. They were fast and maneuverable, and they could carry a large number of troops. The dromons were also equipped with a variety of weapons, including catapults, ballistae, and Greek fire.
Historical Significance
The dromons played a major role in many of the Byzantine Empire’s victories. They were used to defeat the Persians, the Arabs, and the Normans. The dromons were also used to protect the empire’s trade routes and to transport troops and supplies.
Legacy
The dromons were one of the most successful warships of their time. They were used by the Byzantine Empire for centuries, and they helped to maintain the empire’s dominance in the Mediterranean Sea.
Specifications
| Length | 100 feet |
|---|---|
| Width | 20 feet |
| Crew | 100 rowers |
| Armament | Catapults, ballistae, Greek fire |
The Mangonels and Ballistae: Siege Weaponry for Conquering Fortresses
Mangonels: The Powerful Trajectory Throwers
Mangonels were formidable siege weapons, launching large projectiles in a high arc, capable of toppling fortress walls. Their devastating impact made them a crucial asset in the Eastern Roman Empire’s siege arsenal.
Ballistae: Precision Siege Machines
Ballistae were large crossbows, specializing in accurate bombardment. They could penetrate armor with their heavy bolts, taking out enemy soldiers and fortifications alike. Their precision made them particularly effective in castle sieges.
The Art of Siege Warfare
Eastern Roman generals skillfully employed mangonels and ballistae in concert. Mangonels weakened walls, while ballistae suppressed enemy defenders. This combined approach maximized the effectiveness of their siege operations.
Countermeasures and Innovations
To counter these siege weapons, enemies often constructed thicker fortifications or used earthworks as barriers. In response, the Eastern Roman Empire developed new variations of mangonels and ballistae, such as the “trabocco,” a counterweight-powered siege engine.
Table: Mangonels and Ballistae Characteristics
| Type | Mechanism | Projectile | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mangonel | Traction-powered lever | Large stone projectiles | Up to 500 feet |
| Ballista | Giant crossbow | Heavy bolts | Up to 300 feet |
The Flamethrowers: Byzantine Technological Marvels
The flamethrowers used by the Eastern Roman Empire were a technological marvel that gave them a significant advantage in warfare. These incendiary weapons were capable of projecting a stream of fire over a long distance, incinerating enemy soldiers and fortifications alike.
Early Development
The earliest known flamethrowers were developed by the Byzantines in the 6th century CE. These devices were initially primitive, consisting of simple tubes filled with a flammable liquid. The liquid was ignited and then expelled through the tube, creating a short burst of flame.
Improvements and Refinements
Over time, the Byzantines gradually refined their flamethrower technology. They developed more efficient and longer-range devices, as well as protective armor for the operators. By the 10th century, flamethrowers had become a standard part of the Byzantine army’s arsenal.
9. Variations and Specializations
The Byzantines developed numerous variations of their flamethrowers, each tailored for specific purposes. Some common types included:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Portable Flamethrowers | Small, handheld devices that could be operated by a single soldier. |
| Fixed Flamethrowers | Larger and more powerful devices mounted on ships or fortifications. |
| Multi-Barrel Flamethrowers | Devices with multiple barrels that could fire multiple streams of fire simultaneously. |
| Toxic Flamethrowers | Weapons that used a mixture of flammable liquids and toxic chemicals, creating a lingering and deadly cloud of gas. |
Effectiveness and Impact
Byzantine flamethrowers were highly effective weapons, particularly in close-quarters combat or against enemy fortifications. The intense heat and flames could melt armor, incinerate flesh, and destroy structures. The psychological impact of these weapons was also significant, as they instilled fear and panic in enemy ranks.
The Excubitores: Urban Watchmen and Palace Protectors
The Excubitores were an elite unit of the Eastern Roman Empire that served as both urban watchmen and palace protectors. They were created by Emperor Leo I in the 5th century and played a vital role in maintaining order and security in the capital city of Constantinople.
Background and Origins
The Excubitores were initially recruited from Germanic tribesmen who had settled in the Eastern Empire. They were known for their loyalty and ferocity in battle, making them an ideal choice for protecting the emperor and his palace.
Organization and Structure
The Excubitores were divided into five squadrons, each of which was commanded by a tribune. The unit was also supported by a number of auxiliary units, including archers, cavalry, and engineers.
Duties and Responsibilities
The primary duty of the Excubitores was to protect the emperor and his palace. They also patrolled the streets of Constantinople, maintaining order and suppressing crime. Additionally, they served as an escort for the emperor on his travels and accompanied him on military campaigns.
Weapons and Equipment
The Excubitores were equipped with a variety of weapons, including swords, spears, and bows. They also wore heavy armor, which protected them from enemy attacks.
Training and Discipline
The Excubitores were rigorously trained in combat and tactics. They also underwent regular drills and exercises to ensure their readiness for battle.
Role in Major Events
The Excubitores played a significant role in numerous major events in the history of the Eastern Roman Empire. They fought alongside Emperor Justinian in the reconquest of North Africa and Italy, and they helped defend Constantinople during the siege by the Avars and Slavs in the 7th century.
Decline and Demise
The Excubitores gradually declined in importance during the later centuries of the Eastern Roman Empire. They were replaced by other units as the empire faced new threats and challenges.
Legacy
The Excubitores left a lasting legacy as one of the most elite units in the Eastern Roman Empire. Their reputation for loyalty, discipline, and courage continues to inspire historians and military strategists to this day.
Notable Excubitores
Some of the most famous Excubitores include:
| Name | Rank |
|---|---|
| Belisarius | General |
| Mundus | General |
| Narses | General |
Eastern Roman Empire – Best Units in Rome: Total War
The Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire, fielded a diverse and formidable army in Rome: Total War. Here are some of the most effective units:
- Comitatenses Limitanei: These heavily armored infantry formed the backbone of the Eastern Roman army. They were well-trained and equipped, making them a formidable force in close combat.
- Cataphracts: These heavily armored cavalry were the elite of the Byzantine army. They were armed with lances and swords, and their powerful horses gave them a decisive advantage in battle.
- Triarii: These experienced veteran infantry were the most skilled and disciplined troops in the Eastern Roman army. They were equipped with heavy armor and long spears, and they were capable of holding their ground against even the most determined enemies.
- Sagittarii Clibanarii: These mounted archers were highly skilled in both archery and horsemanship. They could rain down a devastating hail of arrows from afar, making them a valuable asset in any battle.
- Onagers: These powerful siege engines were capable of hurling large rocks at enemy fortifications, causing significant damage and demoralizing the enemy.
People also ask about
What is the best early game unit in Rome: Total War?
Hastati are the best early game unit in Rome: Total War. They are cheap to recruit and maintain, and they are effective in both melee and ranged combat.
What is the best late game unit in Rome: Total War?
Triarii are the best late game unit in Rome: Total War. They are highly experienced and disciplined, and they are equipped with heavy armor and long spears. They are capable of holding their ground against even the most determined enemies.
What is the best cavalry unit in Rome: Total War?
Cataphracts are the best cavalry unit in Rome: Total War. They are heavily armored and armed with lances and swords, and their powerful horses give them a decisive advantage in battle.
