Weapons in the Middle Ages

The Middle Ages were a harsh time of exhausting wars and glorious battles, of heroes and the defeated. Weapons were essential in both war and peace, when some were used for hunting. They held great value as raw materials and technology. Fathers passed them down to sons, and when they could no longer be used, they were melted down and reforged. Among the Bulgarians in the early Middle Ages, careless treatment of weapons was punishable by death.

Medieval weapons for close combat included swords, sabres, battle axes, war hammers, and maces. For long-range combat, warriors used bows—particularly the reflex or compound bow—as well as spears and arrows. Like other "barbarian" peoples, the Bulgarians swore allegiance to their swords, which were believed to be symbols of power.

The sabre is a stabbing and cutting weapon similar to a sword, but with a single edge and curved blade. It appeared in Europe in the 7th century, originating from Asia. The sabre's arrival—and the changes it brought to combat—are closely tied to the stirrup and saddle. These were also medieval innovations. They gave horse riders greater stability and freedom of movement.

Warriors protected themselves in battle with helmets, shields, and breastplates.

Most weapons found in these lands were likely produced locally by master blacksmiths. Others were acquired as gifts or war spoils from the victories of the Bulgarian army.