The twenty-first edition of the Roman Military Equipment Conference (RoMEC), held in Brno from 2 to 6 July 2025, brings together scholars, archaeologists, re-enactors, and independent researchers to explore the enduring significance of Roman military equipment. This year’s theme – Roman body armour and other forms of defensive gear – highlights how military technology shaped not only the outcomes of warfare but also broader social, economic, and technological developments across the Roman world.

The contributions collected in this Book of Abstracts reflect the diversity and vitality of current research in this field. They also honour the memory of Jon Coulston, whose pioneering work remains a foundation for Roman military studies. 

Hosted by the Institute of Archaeology of the Czech Academy of Sciences in Brno, RoMEC XXI builds on the region’s rich archaeological record, especially the material legacy of the Marcomannic Wars, to foster new insights into the Roman army and its interactions beyond the Empire’s borders.