Xiphos Sword

Weapon On Display

The weapon of last resort in hoplite warfare

Era: Classical Period

Current Location: Various examples are housed in multiple museums including the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the British Museum, and the Louvre

Materials:

{'blade': 'Bronze (early examples), Iron or Steel (later versions)', 'hilt': 'Wood, bone, or metal', 'decorative_elements': 'Gold, silver, ivory (on high-status examples)'}

Research Confidence:

(80%)

About Xiphos Sword

The Xiphos was a double-edged straight shortsword used by ancient Greeks. Its leaf-shaped blade typically measured 50-60cm in length, with a sharp point designed for both cutting and thrusting. The sword gradually tapered from hilt to tip, featuring a prominent midrib that ran the length of the blade to provide additional strength. The hilt commonly incorporated a crossguard and pommel, often decorated with intricate designs or precious materials in more elaborate versions.

Historical Significance

The weapon of last resort in hoplite warfare

Battle of Thermopylae

The dawn of the third day broke blood-red over the narrow coastal pass at Thermopylae, as if the heavens themselves knew...

Physical Details

Dimensions:

Materials:

{'blade': 'Bronze (early examples), Iron or Steel (later versions)', 'hilt': 'Wood, bone, or metal', 'decorative_elements': 'Gold, silver, ivory (on high-status examples)'}

Quick Facts

Type:

Weapon

Era:

Classical Period

Where to See It

🏛️

Various examples are housed in multiple museums including the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, the British Museum, and the Louvre

Currently on Display