The Helm is a helmet that was originally worn by the Roman cavalry and to which nasal protection and other improvements were added to become the Spangenhelm Helmet and later in the 12th century it evolved into the Enclosed Helmet, the Great Helmet or the Closed Helmet. in the fifteenth century.
The Helm is a medieval helmet that protects the warrior's entire head. Since the Late Middle Ages it was an indispensable piece in all armor and it evolved throughout the Middle Ages, different variants and other types of protective helmets emerging such as Capelinas, Spangenhelm, Cervelleras, Barbutas, Helmets, Almetes or Closed Helmets.
PARTS OF THE MEDIEVAL HELMET
Crest: The upper front part used to decorate the helmet.
Crest: Upper part of the helmet shaped like a crest.
Visor or Visor: The visor, which may or may not be movable, was a narrow front opening at eye level and intended exclusively for viewing.
Barbote-Bib: Lower front part that protects the chin, mouth and jaws.
Collar: Lower circular part that surrounds the entire helmet.
THE EVOLUTION OF THE HELMET OVER TIME
- Nasal Helm: An early helm with a distinctive nose guard.
- Capelina: A type of bell-shaped helmet that covers the entire head.
- Spangenhelm: A medieval helmet with metal strips that form a criss-cross pattern.
- Cervellera: A helmet with a shape that especially protects the top of the head.
- Enclosed Helmet: An advancement in protection with a completely enclosed helmet.
- Great Helm: A larger, heavier helm that provided additional protection.
- Bacinete: A type of helmet that covers the head and neck with a distinctive shape.
- Barbuta: A helmet with a T-shaped opening for the eyes and mouth.
- Helmet: A helmet with a visor that can be raised for comfort.
- Almete: A cube-shaped helmet that covers the entire head.
- Frogmouth: A type of visor with an opening shaped like a frog's mouth.
- Closed Helmet: A completely closed helmet with a visor.
Curious Questions about Medieval Helmets
1. What was the main function of the crest on medieval helmets?
The crest on medieval helmets mainly had a decorative and symbolic function, representing the status and identity of the warrior.
2. What was the importance of the Enclosed Helm in the evolution of protection?
The Enclosed Helm marked a significant advance in protection by completely covering the head, providing greater security on the battlefield.
3. What was the key difference between a Barbuta and a Celada?
The main difference between a Barbuta and a Celada lay in the shape of the visor. The Barbuta had a T-shaped opening, while the Celada had a visor that could be raised.
4. What was the purpose of the Collar on medieval helmets?
The Collar on medieval helmets provided additional protection around the neck, helping to protect this vulnerable area.
5. When did the use of the Great Helm become popular in medieval history?
The Great Helm was popularized in medieval history as a form of additional protection on the battlefield, especially during the 15th century.
6. What influence did Medieval Helmets have on iconography and popular culture?
Medieval Helmets have left an indelible mark on iconography and popular culture, being iconic symbols in films, books and artistic representations of the Middle Ages.
Discover the fascinating evolution of Medieval Helmets and their importance in the history of war and chivalry. Immerse yourself in the world of medieval protection and unravel the secrets of these emblematic helmets in the Helmets category. Explore the history and technology behind these impressive helmets in our collection!
