The Spangenhelm is a Germanic term that refers to a type of combat helmet widely used during the Early Middle Ages. The name "Spangen" refers to the metal strips that form the hull structure, and these strips connect between three and six steel or bronze plates. This structure gives the helmet a conical design that adapts to the shape of the head.
Additionally, some Spangenhelm models include nose guards, cheek flaps made of metal or leather, and eye protections reminiscent of modern spectacle frames.
The Spangenhelm in Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages
This helmet originated in Central Asia, specifically in the Sarmatian region. It reached Europe through what we now know as southern Russia and Ukraine.
Before the 6th century, the Spangenhelm was the most common helmet design in Europe and was also popular in the Middle East. It was widely used by armies such as the Huns and Ostrogoths.
Characteristics and Evolution of Design
The Spangenhelm was known to be an effective protection and relatively easy to produce. However, its design had the weakness of offering partial head protection due to its articulated construction.
Over time, it was replaced by helmets of similar design but made from a single piece, such as nose helmets and boiler hats.
Influence of Nomadic Tribes
The design of the Spangenhelm was influenced and spread by nomadic Iranian tribes such as the Scythians and Sarmatians who lived in the Eurasian steppes. Although their popularity waned over time, some helmets depicted on the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry appear to have been constructed using the Spangenhelm technique.
Historical Representations
In the Kizil caves in the Tarim Basin, representations of knights with segmented pear-shaped helmets have been found.
These representations date from the second half of the 6th century and show the use of segmented helmets typical of the Turkic type.
Variant and Related Models
Over the years, variants of the Spangenhelm emerged, such as wideband helmets. These helmets were used until the 10th century.
In addition, there are lamellar or intermediate Lamellar-Spangen helmets, such as the helmet found in a 6th century children's grave under the Cologne Cathedral.
Discover more about the history and evolution of the Spangenhelm, a helmet that left its mark on the Early Middle Ages and beyond.
Interested in purchasing your own Spangenhelm? Explore our selection of authentic historic helmets and connect with the time of medieval warriors.
