What is balteus?

The balteus is a type of belt or waistband that was worn by Roman soldiers as part of their military attire. It was typically made of leather or metal and was worn around the waist to support the weight of weapons, such as swords or daggers.

The balteus typically had a loop or ring attached to it, which allowed the soldier to hang their sword from their belt. This made it easier to draw the weapon quickly in the heat of battle.

In addition to holding weapons, the balteus also served a decorative purpose and was often adorned with intricate designs, patterns, or inscriptions.

The balteus was an essential part of a Roman soldier's uniform and was considered a symbol of their status and rank within the army.