Historical Overview

Used from the Bronze Age to the 16th century. It was particularly popular in the Middle Ages. In Europe at that time, it was a symbol of knighthood. It often received its own name and was worn before rulers as a sign of power and justice. It was essential for coronation and knighting ceremonies. Allegiance to the ruler was sworn on the sword. Paternal descent was defined as "on the sword" (as opposed to "on the maternal side" - on the mother's side), during the funeral of the last male heir a sword was broken. Before the Battle of Grunwald in 1410, the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, Ulrich von Jungingen, presented the Polish king Władysław Jagiełło with two naked swords as a challenge.