← Explore on the interactive map

Varangian Guard

Type Object Region Constantinople Time c. 988–1204

Elite Scandinavian and Rus guard directly serving Byzantine emperors, founded in Constantinople around the late 10th century, famed as axemen and ser…

Timeline

  1. c. 988–1000Constantinople · ConstantinopleAfter Basil II concluded a peace with Grand Prince Vladimir of Kyivan Rus, Rus warriors were incorporated into the emperor's personal guard, called the Varangians, tasked with palace guard duty and the emperor's personal safety.
  2. c. 1050–1100Constantinople · ConstantinopleThe Guard's recruitment extended to Scandinavians and English exiles; beyond palace guard duty it also took part in expeditions, famed on Mediterranean battlefields for its two-handed battle axes and tight formations.
  3. c. 1171–1180Constantinople palace · ConstantinopleUnder Manuel I the Varangian Guard still manned the imperial palace and the emperor's bedchamber; because of their foreign origin they were less drawn into court factions, making them one of the Komnenian emperors' most trusted close-armed forces.

Sources