I saw this article and thought of this board. I'm afraid I do not have anything to contribute to the conversation, but I thought it might be useful to someone.

Early byzantine lamellar armour from Carthago Spartaria (Cartagena, Spain)

http://www.medievalists.net/2011/02/21/early-...ena-spain/

DMS

Interesting article.

Summary/random observations

114 iron lamellar fragments were found in a probable storage room in a built over Roman theatre at Cartagena and dated to mid sixth century.

The article states that lamellar was introduced in the more northern regions because of changing methods of wafrare. This is unlikely. More likely cause is the fragmentation of the Roman armour industry which led to reduced capacity to produce mail.

The authors reckon that this armour is similar to Roman squamata. Not really. The only similarity is that both use small metallic plates.

Similarities with Byzantine armour contributes to the argument that there was a Byzantine presence in this reigon during this time. IMO the armour looks more central asian in form, not byzantine.

Pic is attached so you can decide for yourself..

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Cool Post....