Iberian longsword evidence?

batjka · 21st March 2015, 02:35 PM

There seems to be a lot of discussion concerning provenance of longsword in Iberian peninsula in 13th-15th centuries. Sources point to a "double-handed" sword tradition that existed before Destreza. Allegedly, some manuals were published in the early 15th Century that describe Spanish longsword system. But all of them have been lost. The only remaining sources come from 16th century, as one on montante by Figuieiredo.

But if the longsword was actually in wide use on the Iberian peninsula, there must be archeological and artistic evidence of such. Are there preserved examples of Spanish and Portuguese longsword in museums or private collections? Any art showing these weapons in Spain or Portugal?

I hope such esteemed and knowledgeable gentlemen as yourselves can help resolve this puzzle.

Thank you in advance.

21st March 2015, 02:35 PM	#1
batjka Member Join Date: Mar 2014 Posts: 39	Iberian longsword evidence? There seems to be a lot of discussion concerning provenance of longsword in Iberian peninsula in 13th-15th centuries. Sources point to a "double-handed" sword tradition that existed before Destreza. Allegedly, some manuals were published in the early 15th Century that describe Spanish longsword system. But all of them have been lost. The only remaining sources come from 16th century, as one on montante by Figuieiredo. But if the longsword was actually in wide use on the Iberian peninsula, there must be archeological and artistic evidence of such. Are there preserved examples of Spanish and Portuguese longsword in museums or private collections? Any art showing these weapons in Spain or Portugal? I hope such esteemed and knowledgeable gentlemen as yourselves can help resolve this puzzle. Thank you in advance.