Hello fellow history enthusiasts and blade aficionados,

The past fortnight has been wonderfully busy. From teaching at HEMA Camp 1387 in Lithuania and studying remarkable museum pieces to continuing several long-term research and reconstruction projects, there has been plenty to keep me occupied. I hope you'll enjoy the latest updates.

A Week of Swords in Lithuania

I have just returned from an unforgettable week in Lithuania, filled with fencing, research, museum visits, inspiring conversations, and the pleasure of meeting old friends while making new ones.

I've written an extensive journal-style account of the trip. So grab a coffee, or perhaps a beer, and come along on my travels.

Upcoming Events: Ribe & Berlin

In Lithuania, at HEMA Camp 1387, several participants asked about the dates for my upcoming events in Ribe and Berlin, so here they are.

The Ribe Bouts take place on 16–18 October 2026. This three-day gathering combines Viking Age living history with the practical exploration of contemporary close combat. If you would like to join us, simply reply to this email.

The 26th Berlin Buckler Bouts follow on 21–22 November 2026. No living history kit is required—just standard HEMA training equipment for an intensive weekend dedicated to historical sword-and-shield fencing.

I will announce the openeing of registration here, and on my Patreon soon.

Studying One of Northern Germany's Oldest Swords

I recently had the opportunity to examine the 3,600-year-old bronze sword from Rastorf, one of the earliest swords from northern Germany. Its remarkable hilt shares intriguing features with the famous Nebra swords, raising fascinating questions about symbolism, craftsmanship and functionality.

I'm currently documenting the weapon in detail and will share my findings with you in due course. For now, you can already see the first photographs in my latest Patreon post.

A Sword Years in the Making

Sometimes a project requires years of patience before all the pieces finally come together.

A collaboration between outstanding craftsmen will soon bring one of my research projects to life: a faithful reconstruction of a beautiful Viking sword, based on years of study and meticulous craftsmanship.

You can read the full story—and follow the project from the very beginning—on Patreon.

A Unique Bronze Age Shield

My latest reconstruction illustration depicts one of the most remarkable Bronze Age shields preserved in the Danish National Museum.

Measuring less than 48 cm across, the shield is adorned with extraordinary bird-sun barge motifs unlike those found on any other known example.

I've written a short article exploring the artefact, its construction and the inspiration behind the reconstruction.

EU Habitats Consultation Still Open

You may remember this from my previous newsletter: there are still a few days left to make your voice heard in support of Europe's natural heritage. I think it's 45 minutes well spent.

Thank you, as always, for your interest, encouragement and support. Whether we meet online, at one of my events, or somewhere in a museum gallery, I look forward to sharing many more discoveries with you.

Swords up!

Roland

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