The traditional dress of ancient Roman soldiers has been iconic in art, literature, and popular culture for centuries. One particular detail of interest is the forward-pointing crest worn by the soldiers. This feature has often been used to depict these legendary warriors in a more visually interesting way. But, why was it worn and what was the purpose of this prominent crest? This article seeks to answer these questions by examining the reasons these crests were worn by Roman soldiers and examining the various theories behind their use.
Background: The Purpose of the Crest
The forward-pointing crest worn by ancient Roman soldiers was known as the Galea, and was made up of several pieces of metal, leather, and feathers. It was typically made from components of the soldiers’ uniform and was originally designed to protect the head from blows from swords and other weapons in combat. However, its use extended beyond the battlefield and it was sometimes worn for ceremonial purposes
