BARBAROSSA Sword (566)
The Marto 566 sword commemorates Frederick the I "Barbarossa" who was one of the 3 Crusader kings who lead his army into Jerusalem as part of the Third Crusade. (1187-1191).

The custom-crafted hilt of this magnificent piece displays a masterwork of religious iconography. The Marto Barbarossa sword features a high quality mirror polished (low maintenance),420 stainless steel blade measuring 35-1/2". Overall length 43". Decoratively etched hilt and pommel in an antique silver finish. The grip is black leather with gold embossed spacers. Forged with Marto’s world-renown quality, this sword is smothered with the rich religious imagery befitting a great Crusader King. An inspiring addition to any sword enthusiast’s collection and a true collector's piece. Decorative use only.

Frederick I "Barbarossa"
The Third Crusade started in the year 1189, and finished in the year 1191. At the beginning of this crusade the Christians passions were enflamed at the loss of Jerusalem. The first leader of the first army in this 3rd crusade was Frederick I (Federico Barbarossa) of Germany, and of course his army was all composed of German Crusaders. This was the largest army during all the Crusades, which imposed great fear on the Turk, Moslem army of Palestine. But after the drowning of Frederick I of Germany his gigantic army disintegrated. Though some German Crusaders remained to do battle in honor their departed chief, they made little impact to their cause. The army became greatly reduced, and only a small amount of German Crusaders actually reached the Holy Land.

A year after Frederick's death, a new army was sent to the Holy Land to defeat the Turks. But, this time there were two leaders; Philip Augustus of France, and Richard I of England, who soon after was named Richard the Lion Hearted.

MARTO of Spain The most popular sword maker in the world. Arguably the best decorative sword maker to date. Marto was founded in 1961 in the old district of Toledo Spain. Their mission is to regain the testimony and the techniques of the master craftsman. Today Marto brings back to life the original art of the sword from the rapier and foil to the Japanese katana. Joining traditional hand crafts with modern materials, are a team of men willing to make a daily effort to achieve the unsurpassed quality which Marto is identified with worldwide. All original Marto molds are given the utmost attention so that no detail is neglected. The hilts are shaped from the original piece and are hand finished and polished. The blades are crafted from the finest 420 stainless steel and are fully tempered to 48-53 Rockwell hardness. Marto is also a skilled maker of Suits of Armor, Shields, & Small Collectibles (Martespa).