Historic re-enactors delighted people at Fort St. Angelo on Thursday, with medieval and early modern era weaponry and demonstrations on show at the historic fort.
The event, captured by photographer Claire Cauchi, was organised by Heritage Malta with one of the participants being Show of Arms, a local group of historical re-enactors specializing in Historical European Martial Arts and the Maltese medieval era of 1380-1420, and the Early Modern era of 1600-1630.
Show of Arms was established in 2005 by Robert Grima.
The members are also regularly trained in the HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) discipline, which encompasses the use and exploration of the classical medieval arming sword, the longsword, the rapier, the side-sword and the small-sword. This sphere of knowledge is directly inspired from a collection of historical manuscripts called “Fechtbücher”, literally meaning “Fight Books” which have been penned by renowned Masters such as Fiore dei Liberi, Hans Talhoffer, Achille Marozzo, and many more. Further to the subject of historical manuscripts, some members also study and apply teachings from era-pertinent drill-books with regards to Hand Cannons and Muskets.
With regards to current HEMA projects, veteran members are constantly undergoing training courses and workshops under the auspices and tutelage of established and recognized “Maestri di Scherma Antica”. This investment will enable and empower the group in hosting its own workshops and issue certifications to the attendees.
A lot of research is done in-house by the members for historical reenactments. There is a myriad of fields to be covered by such research, such as the social strata, lifestyles, craftsmanship, techniques, and of course, the military aspect. The fruits of such labours form a rock-solid foundation for proper reenactment and enable Show of Arms to properly present a snapshot of history based on accurate portrayals and materials.
This high level of dedication, research and investment has led Show of Arms to be invited in various prestigious events overseas, such as Groenlo (Netherlands), Palmanova (Italy), Latvia, Poland, and Ireland.
Show of Arms is always on the lookout for potential recruits; and the primary requirement is the love for Maltese history, and the willingness to invest in proper time and material towards this discipline.
A good insight into Show of Arms’ journey can be explored at its Facebook page, and any expressions of interest can always be sent to the group’s email - [email protected] - or a phone call away to the group’s leaders, namely Robert Grima on 79866618 or Paul Grima on 79490902.
Photos by Claire Cauchi