Every Roman legion, which typically consisted of 5,000 to 6,000 soldiers, had a “primuspilus” (first spear) centurion, and a “secunduspilus” (second spear) centurion. These were the highest-ranking centurions and the most efficient and reliable officers in the army. In early episodes of 'Rome' Lucius Vorenus is a second spear centurion.
The Primus pilus was the senior centurion of the first cohort in a Roman legion. The name Primus Pilus is translated to "first spear". He was a career soldier and advisor to the legate. While normal cohorts were composed of five to eight centuries, the one led by the primus pilus had ten centuries, 800 men. It also had 200 staff, including cooks and clerks. The Primus Pilus was charged with protecting the legionary standard and pay-chest. The legion was largely self-supporting and among its men were specialists, such as engineers, surveyors, and architects, as well as craftsmen.
The primus pilus was the most senior of all the centurions within the legion. They were experienced, veteran soldiers who had moved up within the ranks. In modern terms the primus pilus would be a lieutenant colonel. The primus pilus was a well paid position. Only eight officers in a full legion outranked the primus pilus.
Altar by Marcus Aurelius Cocceius Florianus, who was Primus Pilus of the Legio X Gemina.
Evocati were veteran soldiers who voluntarily re-enlisted after an offer from their commander. Evocati were better paid and didn't perform tasks like road building.
No comments:
Post a Comment