Elite Byzantine Vikings: The Varangian Guard

The Varangian Guard was a prestigious unit of the Byzantine Empire, composed of Scandinavian and Eastern European warriors who served as personal bodyguards to the Byzantine Emperors.

The origins of the Guard can be traced back to the 10th century when Viking mercenaries, known as Varangians, were hired by Byzantine Emperor Basil II to fight against the Bulgars.

The Varangians quickly became renowned for their skill in battle and their loyalty to the Byzantine Emperor.

As a result, Basil II decided to form a permanent bodyguard unit made up of Varangian warriors.

The Guard was composed of a mix of Scandinavians, Rus, and other Eastern European fighters who were known for their ferocity and martial prowess.

The Varangian Guard quickly became one of the most prestigious units in the Byzantine military.

Members of the Guard were well-paid and had access to privileges and benefits that were not available to other soldiers.

They were also exempt from certain taxes and laws, which added to their prestige and influence within the Byzantine Empire.

The Guard played a crucial role in many of the Byzantine Empire's military campaigns.

They fought in numerous battles and campaigns, including the famous Battle of Manzikert in 1071, where they played a pivotal role in protecting the emperor against the invading Seljuk Turks despite ultimately being defeated.

But the Varangian Guard's influence was not limited to the battlefield. The Guard also played an important role in the Byzantine court and politics.

Members of the Guard often held influential positions within the court and were trusted advisors to the Byzantine Emperor.

They were also responsible for protecting the emperor's family and other important members of the court.

Over time, the Varangian Guard became increasingly integrated into Byzantine society.

Members of the Guard often married into prominent Byzantine families, and some even converted to Orthodox Christianity.

Despite this integration, however, the Guard maintained its distinct identity and continued to be composed primarily of Scandinavians and Eastern Europeans.

The Varangian Guard continued to serve the Byzantine Empire until sometime during the 13th century, when all mention of them disappears from the historical record.

This can be explained in a number of ways. Perhaps those still of Viking origin returned home.

However, since most of the guard at that time were native-born Byzantines, the unit may simply have been merged into other sections of the army.

Despite their impressive history and status as one of the most prestigious military units of their time, the Varangian Guard is not as well-known today as other historical military units such as the Roman Legion or the Samurai.

One reason for this is that the Varangian Guard served the Byzantine Empire, which is not as widely studied or celebrated as other empires such as Rome or Japan.

Additionally, the Varangian Guard ceased to exist after the fall of Constantinople to the Ottoman Turks in 1453, and as a result, their legacy was not carried on by subsequent generations.

Nevertheless, the Varangian Guard remains an important part of history, and their contribution to the Byzantine Empire's military campaigns and politics cannot be overlooked.