Bucellarii facts for kids

Bucellarii were special groups of soldiers in the Roman Empire during a time called Late Antiquity. The word "Bucellarii" comes from Latin and means "biscuit-eater." This is because they ate a type of bread called buccellatum.

These soldiers were bodyguards and private armies. Important military leaders, like Flavius Aetius and Belisarius, used them. High-ranking government officials also had Bucellarii. The term became common around the time of Emperor Honorius (395-423 AD).

What Were Bucellarii?

Bucellarii were like private security teams for powerful people. They showed that important officials had their own armed groups. This was different from the main Roman army.

Loyalty and Power

Bucellarii were very loyal to their commanders. They would support their leader in disagreements with other commanders. Sometimes, they even stood with their leader against the Roman government or the emperor. For example, Heraclian used his Bucellarii in an attempt to take over Roman Italy from Emperor Honorius.

Who Joined the Bucellarii?

Bucellarii were known for having the best cavalry (soldiers on horseback) in the 5th and 6th century Roman armies. They were recruited from many different places.

Diverse Soldiers

Soldiers came from various backgrounds. They included Romans, Persians, Goths, and Huns. This mix of soldiers from different groups was quite common. The poet Claudian wrote about Bucellarii as an army of non-Roman soldiers. These soldiers worked for military leaders, politicians, and warlords like Stilicho and Aetius.

Pay and Equipment

Bucellarii usually received the highest salaries among soldiers. They also had the best equipment. This gear came from the empire's best factories.

Skilled Fighters

Some records describe Bucellarii as mercenaries. Mercenaries are soldiers who fight for pay. Their leaders were often called "soldiers of fortune." This was especially true for the groups that operated in Italy from the 6th to 7th centuries. They were highly skilled and well-paid fighters.

See also

• Bucellarian Theme
• Ka'ak