The Art of the Sword
Since 1999, Academia della Spada has been working with an international group of scholars, bladesmiths and martial artists to rediscover the lost arts of European swordplay.

Our presentations cover the historical gamut of bladed weapons with a focus on those best documented in the middle and late Renaissance era, the last hurrah of the sword before it would be largely replaced by gunpowder sidearms. While battlefield weapons may be touched upon, the civilian weapons of the duello, judicial combat, and the tournament are best documented and have enjoyed the bulk of research.

Practical Swordplay
Drills and classwork focus on foot work and practical exercizes with sword in hand to develop the core skills of combat. The class is designed to provide an orientation to the essence of historical fence.

The Sword in History & Literature
More than just the blood-soaked lineage of violence, the story of the sword embodies the progress of science, culture and society. As an alternative to dates and names, historically-dressed combattants demonstrate the sword emphasizing the elegance and sophistication of armed combat while explaining the forces transforming Europe.

The Sword & the Stage
Not your standard stage combat class. A vital suplement to stage combat, the living history of the sword and armed combat in and out of armor can breath life and excitement into a fight scene. As audiences gain discernement, the need to entertain the educated eye grows. A survey of weapons, their use and how this translates to the stage.