The morrión is a medieval helmet with a conical shape and crest that began to be used at the end of the 15th century and remained in use until the 17th century. This emblematic helmet was used by Knights, Spanish Tercios and Conquistadors of America. Its evolution from the helmet included the addition of a wide brim and a curl to improve protection for the ears, face and neck. Inside, it had leather cross straps with buckles to ensure a proper fit.
Origin and Evolution of the Morrion
The morion made its appearance at the end of the 15th century, initially with a conical shape and a sharp crest designed to fulfill its function in battle. Later, it was adopted by the Spanish thirds during the Golden Age and by the Conquerors of America. Its name comes from the Spanish word "morra," which means crown on the head.
The conical shape of the helmet was intended to make blows and impacts from weapons such as pikes or spears slide over it, providing greater protection to the wearer. Throughout history, the morion has evolved in its design and has adapted to different military needs and ornamental styles. Even today, we can find morions in the Vatican's Swiss Guard, a military body in charge of the Pope's security.
El Morrión: Helmet of the Conquerors of America
The Spanish Conquistadors began their epic conquest at the end of the 15th century and during the 16th century, annexing vast territories of America and the Philippines to the domain of the Spanish Crown. One of the most iconic elements of their military clothing was the morion, which has become a distinctive symbol of this era.
The morions of the Chiefs and Officers of the Conquerors used to have a hole in the upper part, where they placed feathers as a badge. In addition, it was common to find morions adorned with acid etchings and decorative reliefs that reflected the wealth and importance of their bearers in the society of the time.
Curious Questions about the Morrión
What is the main purpose of the wide brim on the nose?
The wide brim of the morion has the main function of improving the protection of the wearer's ears, face and neck during battle.
Where does the name "morrión" come from?
The term "morrión" comes from the Spanish word "morra," which means crown on the head, due to the conical shape of the helmet.
What differentiates the morriones from the Chiefs and Officers of the Conquerors of America?
The morions of the Chiefs and Officers of the Conquerors had a hole in the upper part to place feathers as a badge, as well as engraved ornaments and decorative reliefs.
What was the historical period in which morion was widely used?
The morrion was widely used from the late 15th century to the 17th century, during the Spanish Golden Age and the era of the Conquerors of America.
Where can we find moriones today?
Today, morions can still be found in the Vatican's Swiss Guard, a military unit tasked with the Pope's security.
What was the purpose of the acid etchings on the morions?
The acid etchings on the morions served to decorate and enhance the appearance of the helmets, showing the importance and status of their wearers.
Discover more about the fascinating history of the morion and its relevance in the era of the Knights and Conquerors. Explore our site to learn more about military history and medieval clothing!
