300 Spartan shield

300 Spartan shield

• Diameter approx. 914 mm
• Weight approx. 9.2 kg 
• The leather band under which the forearm is inserted measures approx. 32 x 20 cm
• An iron handle with a length of 17 cm and a diameter of approx. 4 cm is mounted on the back of the shield

Please note: This is just an ornamental item, not intended for real use!

Premium quality, made by Windlass Steelcrafts®

This shield is a replica of a Spartan hoplon, made famous by its appearance in the movie 300. While the film version is somewhat stylized, the actual shields were crucial to Spartan warriors and their battle tactics.

Hoplites and their shields:

• Hoplites were heavily armed citizen-soldiers who formed the core of the Spartan army. Their equipment was standardized, and the shield was a key component.
• Hoplons were large, round shields made of wood and covered in bronze. They weighed approximately 15-18 pounds and measured about 3 feet in diameter.
• Grip: The shield was held by a central grip and a leather strap for the forearm. This allowed for a firm grip and good mobility.

The shield's role in combat:

• Protection: The hoplon protected the hoplite from neck to knee, which was vital in close combat.
• Phalanx formation: Hoplites fought in a tightly packed formation called a phalanx. Their shields overlapped, creating a "wall" that protected the entire formation.
• Offensive weapon: The shield was also used offensively. Hoplites could use it to shove and push opponents, disrupting their formation.

The Lambda Symbol:

• The shield features the Greek letter lambda (Λ), which was the symbol of Sparta.
• It stands for Lacedaemon, the region in ancient Greece where Sparta was located.

Conclusion:

The Spartan hoplon was not just a defensive tool but also a symbol of Spartan discipline and strength. Its use in the phalanx formation allowed Sparta to dominate the battlefield for centuries and became a legendary symbol of their military prowess.