In the armies of Medieval Europe, mounted and un-mounted crossbowmen, often mixed with slingers, javelineers and archers, occupied a central position in battle formations. Crossbowmen were also valuable in counterattacks to protect their infantry. The rank of commanding officer of the crossbowmen corps was one of the highest positions in any army of this time. These pieces are normally found throughout central Europe and especially on sites of Austro-Hungarian battlefields.
To discover more about warfare and weapons in the Middle Ages, please visit our relevant blog post: Medieval Weaponry.
