Download The Roman Legions





A legion usually consisted of approximately
5,000-6,000 soldiers.
In 58 BC, Caesar had six legions, eight in 58-57
B. C., and ten in 53 B. C.
By the Second Century A.D. the Roman Army
consisted of about 28 Legions with
approximately 160,000 legionaries, along with an
additional force of some 220,000 auxiliary troops
in other types of units.
It's been estimated that a Legionary could
carry anywhere from 66 lbs. to over 100 lbs.
of gear and weapons.




Buccellatum and Frumentum Hard tack and
corn rations. (is a simple type of cracker or
biscuit, made from flour, water, and salt.
Papilio Leather tent.
Tunica The standard tunic worn over linen
undergarments and underneath his armor
Caligae Heavy military sandals that used iron
hob-nails as treads, similar to modern day
athletic cleats.


Galea Helmet. Though there were many types
this was the most common helmet. They were
generally made of bronze with iron trim, with
a projecting piece shielded the neck and a
smaller ridge fastened at the front for
protection of the face.
Scutum The large Roman shield, which was
curved to fit the body



Gladius The Roman short sword. It was a
double-edged weapon about 18 inches long
and two inches wide, often with a corrugated
bone grip formed to the Legionaries hand.
Pilum The Roman javelin. It was seven feet
long and very light, as it was thrown before
just prior to engaging the enemy in melee, to
disarm as much as wound them.
Pugio The Roman dagger was anywhere from
7 to 11 inches long in similar width to the
gladius


Arcus and sagitta (bow and arrow) –
The Roman ballista (a catapult) were huge
crossbows that shot out these huge darts.
The ballista’s were capable of going through
about four armored men with one single dart.