Top 5 Most Iconic Medieval Helmets

We all know the image: a fearless knight, clad in gleaming armor, charging into battle. But what about the most crucial piece of protection – the helmet? These weren't just metal buckets; they were works of art, symbols of power, and sometimes, designed to strike fear into the hearts of their enemies. Today, we'll delve into the fascinating world of medieval headwear, revealing the Top 5 Most Iconic Medieval Helmets!

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1. The Corinthian Helmet:

Predating the medieval era by centuries, the Corinthian helmet is a true classic. Worn by ancient Greek hoplites, it featured a full-face design with narrow eye slits and a prominent nasal guard. Its intimidating visage became a symbol of courage and strength, inspiring later real Viking helmet designs.

2. The Great Helm:

The quintessential knight's helmet, the Great Helm dominated the battlefields of the High Middle Ages. Made of plate steel, it offered complete head protection with a simple, bucket-like design. Narrow vision slits and breathing holes ensured the knight could fight effectively while remaining mostly anonymous.

3. The Bascinet Medieval Helmet:

A versatile and popular helmet, the bascinet evolved throughout the Late Middle Ages. It typically featured a rounded skullcap and a movable visor, allowing for better visibility and ventilation compared to the Great Helm. The bascinet became a favorite for jousting and mounted combat.

4. The Sallet Helmets:

Offering a more open-faced design, the sallet emerged in the 15th century. It featured a rounded skullcap with a visor that could be lifted or removed entirely. Often paired with a gorget (neck protection), the sallet provided a good balance of protection and visibility, making it popular with archers and lighter-armored troops.

5. The Burgonet:

A descendant of the bascinet, the burgonet offered a more streamlined design for the 16th century. It featured a hinged visor and a distinctive ridge running down the center. The burgonet was a popular choice for both mounted and foot soldiers, remaining in use well into the 17th century.

Beyond the Glitz:

These iconic helmets represent just a glimpse into the fascinating world of medieval headwear. Each design reflects the changing needs of warfare, technological advancements, and even societal trends.

So next time you see a picture of a knight, take a closer look at their roman gladiator helmet! It might just tell a story of its own.