Byzantine Cataphract

By Crusader1307

Translated to mean “completely armored”, These were the Heavy Cavalry of The Byzantine Army.Century. Seen around the start of the 7th Century and lasting up to the 13th Century, The Cataphracts were heavily armed and armored. Often, their horses were completely covered in light armor as well. They were well-disciplined and fearsome. Often they carried a Lance (or Kontarion), Bow and Mace. Due to their obvious weight, they were very slow with regards to movement on the battlefield (especially a Charge). Still, their effectiveness as “shock troops” were highly exploited by Byzantine Commander.