The term 'kataphractoi' is of Greek origin and can be interpreted as 'fully-armoured' or 'closed from all sides'. In military terms, it described heavily-armoured cavalrymen. These shock troops were first fielded as part of Darius’ army at Gaugalema in 352BC. Mostly Bactrian and Scythian horsemen, these riders and their mounts required excellent stamina as they were completely enclosed by metal scale armour, and in desert heat too! Cataphract cavalry could use their weight and armour to penetrate an enemy line, but were far less agile than regular horsemen.
