Mithras Sword Fight Club is the first society in Malta dedicated to the study and practice of Historical Fencing. The methods and principles practiced are those that were traditionally used as a self-defense or within the context of a duel.

We share the same the philosophy and approach of other clubs and associations around the world who practice this discipline as a ‘martial art’. Due mainly to the film industry and television, the term ‘martial art’ has been always associated with oriental combat systems. Many have the wrong impression that the combat in Europe in medieval and renaissance times, was a crude sequence of random chops and stabs.

In reality, it was the complete opposite. Being primarily part of the education of a nobleman and also that of who was willing to learn, whether for preparation to go to battle or to defend his honour in a duel, very precise systems of combat were taught in fencing academies throughout Europe, directly from master to pupil.

Many masters wrote very detailed treatises on various methods on how to handle different weapons. Nowadays, thanks to the work of scholars, who study and practice from these treatises left by the masters of the past, we are able to understand and re-discover more about this art and science of fencing, which is after all our Western martial heritage.

Why is fencing a science?

In order to advance in this discipline and be able to take part in a ‘free assault’ (when two fencers face each other in a simulation of a duel), one must first master the basic logical principles which are systematically taught at the club. One must repeat these basic movements and techniques many times so that they will become second-nature to the body. These basics need to be repeated and constantly tested before moving to more complex techniques.

Why is fencing an art?

The ‘free assault’ is where the nature and individuality of a fencer is manifested. Self-expression and creativity, timing, distance, strategy, physical fitness and knowing yourself and your opponent while using the techniques and movements learnt during the lessons, are all ingredients which come together in the free assault.

‘Hit without getting hit’

This is the principle that a historical fencer has to always keep in mind. We treat the weapons we use being either made of blunt metal or wood as though they are ‘real’ (sharp and pointed). With this idea in mind the fencer will always be aware of the potential ‘danger’ of a threat with a ‘real’ weapon and will not indulge into a mindless, rushed attack. This principle will increase the need of self conservation by a proper defense, which is one of the main priorities of this discipline.