Like the helmets of their forbearers, Roman helmets and gladiator helmets are iconic of Roman warriors and are, therefore, almost instantly recognizable. Here at Medieval Armour, we endeavor to provide the widest selection of Roman helms possible, offering both the recognizable helms depicted in movies and fiction as well as the esoteric and elaborate ones worn in history. Roman helmets had many names, depending on its function, although the most typical roman helmet was the galea, or the imperial helmet (note that galea is Classical Latin for 'helmet'). The imperial helmet was worn by virtually every member of the Roman war machine. That is not to say that all Roman helmets were the same, though, because as you can see here, many had subtle differences, which helped to separate, say, the roman trooper helmet and the roman soldier helmet from the roman guard helmet. The crested Roman helmets found here were typically reserved for officers and military leaders, as the plume or crest signified importance (and sometimes, duty). Unlike classic Roman helmets, though, gladiator helmets were infinitely more distinctive and varied. This is because most gladiator helmets, unlike the Greco roman helmets of the day, were designed to be both a help and a hindrance to the warrior wearing them. All in all, though, there's a wide variety of Roman helmets gladiator helmets to be seen here at Medieval Armour, which means that if you planned on seeing them all, you'd best get to browsing.
The Romans were quick to adopt anything that they felt was beneficial to their cause. This Imperial Gallic Besancon Helm is one example of that, as this helmet was based on a design that came from Celtic craftsmen in Gaul.
The Romans were quick to adopt anything that they felt was beneficial to their cause. This Imperial Gallic Centurion Helm is an example of that, as this helmet was based on a design that originally came from skilled Celtic craftsmen.
The imperial helmet is a broad classification applied to the helmet that was considered by many to be the quintessential Roman galea. The Imperial Gallic Face Helmet is a replica of a historical helm found on an archaeological dig.
How could you tell the difference between common Roman soldiers and their officers? Centurions often wore helmets that indicated their rank utilizing a crest, just as the Imperial Italic Centurion Helm with Red Plume shows.
Not all Roman helmets were grand visions of opulence and decoration. The average trooper wore what he was given or what he could afford that was most protective, and in some cases, that would up being a helmet like this Intercisa Helmet.
This Late Roman Infantry Inlercisa II Helmet is an updated form of what became the typical Roman soldiers helmet. The difference between the two is that this helmet protects a larger area, thanks to its nose guard and larger flaps.
Plumes were not just ornamental decorations that were attached to helmets for reasons of style. In fact, a decoration like this Mini Red Plume would have been very significant, indicating a person or officer of importance and rank.
Plumes were not just ornamental decorations that were attached to helmets for reasons of style. In fact, a decoration like this Natural Plume would have been very significant, indicating a person or officer of importance and rank.
Among the Roman military, few units are as legendary as the Praetorian Guard. They were well-known for their prowess, and were instantly recognizable, thanks to the helms they wore, similar in appearance to this Praetorian Guard Helmet.
Plumes were not just ornamental decorations that were attached to helmets for reasons of style. In fact, this Red Helm Plume with Wood Base would have been very significant, indicating a person or officer of importance and rank.
Plumes were not just ornamental decorations that were attached to helmets for reasons of style. In fact, a decoration like this Red Plume would have been very significant, indicating a person or officer of importance and rank.
Later Roman helms gradually moved towards simplicity and effectiveness, rather than impressive displays. Take this Roman Cavalry Helmet, for instance, which features very little in the way of ornamentation and focuses on pure defense.
