The Montante was a massive two-handed sword developed in the Iberian Peninsula during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. Known for its imposing size, it was favoured in Spain and Portugal for both battlefield and civilian contexts. Masters of arms produced detailed treatises on its use, often highlighting its role in crowd control, guarding spaces, and holding off multiple opponents. The weapon represented both a practical tool for soldiers and bodyguards and a symbol of martial prestige.
Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Origin | Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) |
| Period of Use | 15th to 17th centuries |
| Overall Length | 140–180 cm (average) |
| Blade Length | 100–130 cm |
| Weight | 2.5–4.5 kg |
| Grip Length | 30–40 cm (for two hands) |
| Blade Type | Straight, double-edged |
| Guard | Wide cross guard, often with side rings or parrying hooks |
| Function | Combat, defence, ceremonial display |
History and Evolution
The Montante emerged during the 15th century as part of the broader European trend towards large two-handed swords. Similar to the German Zweihänder, it developed unique characteristics tied to Iberian martial culture. Spanish fencing masters such as Diogo Gomes de Figueyredo and Luis Pacheco de Narváez wrote extensive rules (reglas) for its use, stressing controlled movements and situational tactics.
The weapon was employed in a variety of roles:
- Guarding bridges, gates, or narrow passages.
- Protecting nobles or dignitaries in crowds.
- Breaking enemy pike formations on the battlefield.
- Used ceremonially to project status and authority.
By the 17th century, its practical military role declined as firearms and lighter swords became dominant, but its ceremonial and training use persisted.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Long reach allowed control of space against multiple attackers.
- Powerful cutting and thrusting capacity.
- Effective in crowd control and formation disruption.
- Highly respected within Iberian martial traditions.
Disadvantages
- Heavy and cumbersome compared to rapiers or sabres.
- Required extensive training to master safely.
- Ineffective in confined spaces or against missile weapons.
- By the 17th century, outdated on the battlefield.
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Weapon | Region | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Montante | Spain/Portugal | Focus on rules of use, strong ceremonial and defensive role |
| Zweihänder | German states | Larger overall, with parrying hooks, used by Landsknechts |
| Spadone | Italy | Similar fencing manuals but less ceremonial use |
| Claymore (greatsword) | Scotland | Slightly shorter, simpler cross guard, more battlefield use |
Legacy
The Montante remains an enduring symbol of Iberian martial culture. Surviving manuals provide detailed insight into Renaissance fencing theory. Modern historical European martial arts (HEMA) practitioners continue to study its rules, reviving techniques that emphasise control, fluidity, and discipline. Museums and collections preserve surviving examples, often richly decorated to signify rank.
Where to See
Examples of Montantes can be viewed in several museums and collections:
- Museo del Ejército, Toledo, Spain
- Royal Armouries, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Museu Militar de Lisboa, Portugal
- Private collections and European arms auctions
Collectors Guide
Market Overview
Montantes are rare compared to German Zweihänders, making them desirable to collectors. Their condition, provenance, and decoration strongly affect value.
Auction Prices
- Functional battlefield examples: £8,000 – £15,000
- Decorated or ceremonial pieces: £20,000 – £50,000+
- Museum-quality examples with provenance: £75,000+
Collecting Notes
- Check for authenticity, as reproductions exist.
- Condition of hilt, guard, and blade is critical.
- Iberian provenance adds significant value.
- Rarely appear at auction, increasing competition.
Conclusion
The Montante was more than a weapon: it was a statement of martial authority in Iberia. While its battlefield role diminished, its enduring place in fencing manuals and its imposing size secured its place in history. For collectors and historians, it remains one of the most fascinating two-handed swords of the Renaissance world.
