May from 3rd to 6th the medieval fighting of the Battle of the Nations

From May 3rd to 6th, the Castle of Santa Severa hosted the world final of the “Battle of the nations” tournament. The international event was organized by Historical Martial Combat Italy Federation, C.S.E.N. (National Educational Sports Center) and HMBIA (Historical Medieval Battle International Association) in collaboration with Regione Lazio, LAZIOcrea, Mibact, Municipality of Santa Marinella and Coopculture.

Battle of the Nations is hosted every year in a different country, for the 2018 edition it will be hosted in Italy and, after the qualifying semi-finals of the Italian teams, the location of the castle will be the setting for the world event. More than 700 fighters from different parts of the world will participate, such as New Zealand to mention the farthest and China to mention one whose history is very different from the European Middle Ages. The categories are the 1vs1 divided into 4 disciplines (long sword, sword and shield, sword and brocchiere and weapon in auction, both male and female) and group battles with 3vs3 female only and 5vs5 and 21vs21 male. Italy participates in the BotN since the second edition of 2011, when the countries concerned were only 7 compared to 37 today and is represented by 50 fighters and participates in all disciplines.

A medieval camp was built and a large tribune capable of accommodating 700 people seated in the area adjacent to the parking lot, on the square of the Fontanile a large “medieval” market arose where to see a real blacksmith at the field forge, try the weapons and the armor as well as engaging in simulated duels and archery followed by the masters of historical fencing weapons. On the Esplanade of the Lords a second arena was set up for the challenges 1vs1 and 2vs2. In addition, parades in period costumes, dances and medieval music have served as a side dish for the whole event.

Battle of the nations Programme