Hoplite Shield (Aspis)

The Hoplite shield, known as the Aspis, was a large, round shield used by ancient Greek soldiers called hoplites. Typically made of wood and covered with bronze, the Aspis measured about three feet in diameter. Its design allowed for effective protection in battle, as it covered the soldier’s body and could also be used to shield comrades. The Aspis was an essential part of the phalanx formation, where soldiers stood close together for mutual defense. Its weight enabled durability, yet hoplites trained to maneuver effectively with it in combat.