The origin of the name of Charlemagne’s legendary sword is unclear, as the sword never made it to his grave. After Charlemagne’s death in 814 CE, the story of Joyeuse’s fate is obscure. Despite the absence of documented historical evidence, the sword’s name has been traced back to the 11th century French epic poem Chanson de Roland.
Joyeuse
The Louvre Museum in Paris holds a beautiful sword which was once used by Charlemagne, King of the Franks. This sword is called Joyeuse and was forged by Galas. It took three years to complete. It would have been used at numerous coronation ceremonies. In addition to its history, the Joyeuse sword is also linked to many myths and legends.
The name of Charlemagne’s sword comes from the eighth-century epic poem, the Song of Roland, which tells the story of the famous Battle of Roncevaux Pass in 778. In it, Roland describes how the sword was named Joyeuse.
Early-medieval configuration of Oakeshott Type XII
Early-medieval swords in this configuration are typically one-handed, with a broad, straight crossguard. The pommel, shaped like a sunburst, was positioned above the crossguard to prevent slipping and balance the sword. The hilt is usually brass, but this is not historically accurate. However, it is easier to keep clean and looks good when paired with a hardwood grip.
The inscriptions on the 32-inch blade match other examples of similar shape from the 11th to the 12th centuries. In addition, the deep pitting and cruciform hilt of this blade are both pleasing to the eye.
Origin
The Sword of Charlemagne, also known as La Joyeuse, is made up of various parts that were crafted between the tenth and thirteenth centuries. Charlemagne ruled the Franks from 768 to 814, and was the first Holy Roman Emperor. He acquired vast lands and earned the title of “Father of Europe.”
Although the sword was used by Charlemagne in his time, there are a variety of theories regarding its origins. Some people believe that the sword was made by Sassanian craftsmen, while others think that it was made by a western craftsman. Whatever the case, the sword is likely a product of European craftsmen and has been repaired several times over the centuries.
Adaptation from Roman spathae
The spatha is a long, flat sword that was used by the Romans for a variety of purposes. It was used by infantry, cavalry, and even the auxiliary infantry. Its name is derived from the Greek word gladius, which meant “a sword.” The spathae ranged in length from 540mm to 815mm and were between 35mm and 65mm in width.
The spatha was used during the Roman period, and the Germanic people later adapted it for their own purposes. The Sparta is a one-handed sword with a broad blade and double-edged blade. It was used in settlement areas of Germany from the first century to the sixth century AD.
Adaptation from a Carolingian sword
This is an incredible recreation of a Carolingian sword. The Damascus Steel Carolingian Sword combines mythical and historical elements into a single blade. Its pattern welded blade is a fine example of a medieval European sword.
Its blade is the most prominent feature of the sword, and it influences how the sword is handled in motion. A tapered blade reduces the inertia towards the tip. As such, this sword is able to slice an opponent’s sword without damaging it.
Legend surrounding Charlemagne’s sword
Legend has it that Charlemagne’s sword was lost in a battle and that whoever found it would receive a great reward. The sword was eventually found by a soldier in Ardeche and Charlemagne declared the soldier lord of the land. The sword is now preserved in the Louvre. It is one of the most famous swords in history and remains a symbol of great power.
Although the blade of the sword is almost exactly the same as Charlemagne’s sword, there are differences between the pieces. The pommel, for instance, appears to be of a different age than the blade. Its proportions, meanwhile, suggest it was made later. Some antiquarians believe that the sword may be a composite of many different parts.