Morion (helmet)

Spanish Conqueror Helmet

Morion is a type of helmet that was used from the mid-16th century to the early 17th century, mainly by infantry soldiers. The distinctive feature of the morion is its high, crested brim arching from the front to the back, which provides both protection from downward blows and a degree of sunshade for the eyes. The helmet is often associated with Spanish conquistadors, although it was widely used across Europe. Morions were made of steel and were often elaborately decorated, reflecting the wealth and status of the wearer.

Design and Features

The morion's design is characterized by a tall, curved crest that runs from the front to the back of the helmet, ending in a point at both ends. This crest not only served a protective function but also gave the helmet a visually striking appearance. The brim is wide and flared, offering additional protection to the head, neck, and shoulders from sword blows and projectiles. Some morions featured cheek guards or a visor, although these were less common.

Types of Morions

There are two main types of morions, differentiated by their silhouette:

• The Spanish Morion, which has a more rounded crest and usually features a comb or ridge along the top.
• The Comb Morion, also known as the "English Morion," which has a flatter top and a more pronounced comb.

Both types could be elaborately decorated, with etching, gilding, and embossing common among higher-quality pieces.

Usage

The morion was popular among foot soldiers in Europe, particularly during the 16th century and the early 17th century. Its use was not limited to Spain; it was also adopted by various European armies, including those of England, France, and the German states. The helmet's popularity was partly due to its effective protection against the weapons of the time, such as swords, pikes, and early firearms. It was also relatively inexpensive to produce, making it accessible to common soldiers.

Cultural Significance

The morion is closely associated with the image of the Spanish conquistadors, who wore it during their expeditions to the New World. This association has made the morion a symbol of the Age of Exploration. In popular culture, the morion is often used to represent early modern European soldiers, especially those involved in the colonization of the Americas.

Decline and Legacy

By the mid-17th century, the morion fell out of favor, replaced by helmets and headgear that offered better protection against the increasingly effective firearms of the period. However, the distinctive silhouette of the morion has ensured its place in historical and popular imagination. Today, morions are often seen in historical reenactments, museums, and collections of arms and armor.

See Also

• Helmet
• Spanish conquistadors
• 16th century warfare
• Arms and armor