The varangians of Constantinople. Origin, splendor and epigones of a mercenary guard

Authors

  • María Isabel Cabrera-Ramos Universidad de Granada

Abstract

We analyse the origin and the evolution of the Varagian Guard throughout the Byzantine history, getting closer to an elite military unit formed by mercenaries of Nordic and English origin, that was present in any war incident of the Empire and in occasions such as 1203-1204, being the only effective military option against the Latin rivals.

Keywords:

Varagians, Byzantine Empire, Varangian Guard, Basil II, mercenaries, Fourth Crusade, Constantinople