Nov 24, 2021 · In popular culture, ancient Spartan hoplites are virtually always portrayed as fighting with shields decorated with the Greek letter lambda (Λ). This letter, of course, stands for Λακεδαίμων (Lakedaímōn), which was the most common name in antiquity for the Greek polis (i.e., “city-state”) that included that settlement of Sparta.

The Spartan shields' technical evolution and design evolved from bashing and shield wall tactics. They were of such great importance in the Spartan army that while losing a sword and a spear was an exception, to lose a shield was a sign of disgrace.

Feb 16, 2025 · The real Spartan shield, known as the hoplon, was a crucial part of ancient Spartan warfare. It was large and round, providing protection for the soldier's body and forming a shield wall when...

Jun 15, 2017 · A bronze shield from the Battle of Sphacteria, 425 BCE, is displayed at the Agora Museum in Athens, Greece. The round and heavily damaged shield has lost its bronze colour and is now grey. Spartan shields were generally created from wood with bronze for its outer layer.

Feb 12, 2019 · The Spartan Shield. The Spartans wielded the dory with one hand, which allowed them to hold a shield, known as a hoplon or aspis, in the other. This shield was round and large, measuring about 91 centimeters (36 inches) in diameter.

May 6, 2023 · From the iconic spear to the massive shield, Spartan weapons were designed to be powerful, efficient, and effective. The weapons wielded by the Spartans were a key aspect of making Sparta the world’s leading war machine in ancient times.

Mar 8, 2018 · Depending which source you think is most credible, the English longbow has a pull weight of 80 (lowest source) to 185 lbs (highest source). A 30 lbs shield pales in comparison. Keep in mind that historically, pretty much everyone was used to more physical labor.

The uniform state symbol on the Greek shield (like the famous Lambda of the Spartans) was established towards the end of the 5th century B.C. Inside the Greek shield there were suspension straps and handles used for support.

Feb 16, 2025 · The ancient Spartan shield, known as the hoplon or aspis, was a crucial part of Spartan battle tactics and warfare strategies. It provided protection for the soldier and his neighboring...

Of course, we don't only offer Spartan shields, but also Trojan shields and traditional hoplite shields that feature a huge assortment of incredible designs, ranging from Greek symbols of myth to fearsome animals, all designed to make a shield more personal and more intimidating.