Miniature Roldan Sword (Bronze) by Marto of Toledo Spain

As told in the Matter of France Durandal is the name of the sword of Charlemagnes paladin Roland (Roldan). According to Ludovico Ariostos Orlando Furioso it once belonged to Hector of Troy and was given to Roland by Malagigi. In The Song of Roland the sword is said to contain within its hilt one tooth of Saint Peter blood of Saint Basil hair of Saint Denis and a piece of the raiment of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the poem during the Roncesvalles battle (August 15th 778) Charlemagnes troops coming back from the siege of Saragossa were ambushed by 100000 Saracens helped by moors. Count Roland fighting a loosing rear guard action for the Frank army attempts to destroy the sword to prevent it from being captured by the ambushing Saracens and creates La BrFche de Roland a pass on the Pirenees in the process. But Durendal proves indestructible so he hurls it into a poisoned stream instead. Local folklore claims Durendal still exists preserved in Rocamadour France. An inscription on Ogier the Danes sword Curtana read My name is Cortana of the same steel and temper as Joyeuse and Durendal.

Price: $15.99

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