Legendary Blades: 10 Famous Sword Names From Mythology
Famous swords and mythological weapons have played a crucial role in human history and culture, especially in warfare and symbolism.
Throughout, legendary blades have been revered as mythical weapons wielded by heroes and villains, embodying humanity's virtues and vices.
From holy swords blessed by gods to demonic swords in mythology, these legendary weapons have captured our imagination for centuries.
As fellow medieval weaponry enthusiasts, we've researched and compiled a list of the top 10 famous sword names from mythology.
Whether you're a fan of famous swords in Greek mythology, Norse sagas, or Arthurian weaponry, you'll find fascinating insights here!
And if you're looking to own a piece of history yourself, we also recommend swords from Battling Blades.
So grab your scabbard, and let's journey through the realm of famous weapons in mythology!
Famous Sword #1: Excalibur:
One of the most famous sword names in mythology is Excalibur, the holy sword name of King Arthur’s weapon.
Excalibur was a sword best known for its origins as the “sword in the stone”.
This meant only the man who was prophesied to be the ‘true’ monarch of Avalon (England) could pull it out.
Young Arthur, a lowly squire, pulled out the sword and claimed his rightful place as king.
With this claim, the Lady of the Lake gave him the ownership of the sword.
Excalibur thus was more than just a famous sword; it represented Arthur's legitimacy, power, and destiny.
It was also said that the sword was indestructible and magical, as all real legendary swords tend to be.
These included the ability to glow brightly, inflict mortal wounds, and return to its owner's hand when thrown.
Excalibur also had a sheath, which granted its bearer invincibility in battle but was eventually lost or stolen.
More importantly, however, Excalibur's significance in Arthurian legend extends beyond its physical attributes.
The famous sword represented the ideals of chivalry, the Knight’s Code, and the moral values of justice, loyalty, and honor.
It was also the key to many of Arthur's quests, including the search for the Holy Grail.
If you're looking for a sword that captures the spirit of legendary blades like Excalibur, you’re in the right place.
Battling Blades offers a range of high-quality medieval swords that are similar in design and craftsmanship.
One such range of products are the Claymore swords, two-handed swords with long, straight blades and cross-shaped hilts.
Made of carbon steel and featuring intricate details on the handle and pommel, these swords are both functional and decorative.
Famous Sword #2: Durandal
Durandal is a legendary sword with its roots in French mythology.
According to the legends, Durandal was originally wielded by the great knight Roland, one of Charlemagne's twelve peers.
The story is closely tied to the Battle of Roncevaux Pass, where Roland fought against an army of invading Saracens.
Note: Learn more about the battle here!
As the legend goes, Roland used Durandal to strike a rock, splitting it in half.
This created a pass through the mountains that allowed the retreating Christian army to escape.
Moreover, Durandal was known for its incredible sharpness, strength, and divine origins.
Durandal was a longsword with a single-edged blade and a unique gold hilt that was adorned with precious gems.
More importantly, it was ‘indestructible’, which means it even sliced through iron without being destroyed.
At Battling Blades, we offer a range of longswords, including the Dragon Longsword.
It features a high-carbon Damascus steel blade and is ornately crafted.
While it belongs to a far later time period, this blade follows the long history of longswords.
And as a recipient of that history, the replica swords by Battling Blades are expertly crafted.
Famous Sword #3: Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi
Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, or the Grass-Cutting Sword, is a legendary sword from Japanese mythology.
According to legend, the sword was discovered by storm god Susanoo in the body of an eight-headed serpent he killed.
The famous sword is said to have been given to the sun goddess Amaterasu.
Ameterasu then passed it down to her grandson, the first emperor of Japan.
Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi is a long, curved sword with a double-edged blade.
It is often depicted with a jewel or mirror on its hilt.
The sword is considered one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan and is a symbol of the emperor's authority.
Battling Blades offers a wide range of Japanese swords in memory of the coolest swords in history.
This refers to their range of replica katana swords, which may well be some of the most popular real legendary swords.
Their "Ninja Sword Katana" features a straight, single-edged blade inspired by traditional Japanese designs. And ninjas, of course!
Famous Sword #4: Gram
Gram is a legendary blade in mythology owned and used by Sigurd, the hero of Norse mythology.
According to the legend, the dwarves forged Gram.
It was thus said to be a powerful weapon capable of cutting through iron as if it were cloth.
The famous sword was given to Sigurd by his mentor, Regin.
Regin then convinced his student to slay the dragon Fafnir and take the treasure it had been guarding.
With Gram, Sigurd went on to accomplish this feat and became one of the greatest heroes of Norse mythology.
And indeed, he went on to become a very famous swordsman in mythology.
In any case, Gram was described as a longsword.
This meant it could be wielded with one hand or two, as with all ‘Bastard’ swords.
Furthermore, it claimed a keen edge and was remarkably enduring, thus allowing it to remain unmarked even past the toughest battles.
And, of course (because famous swords are opulent), the sword's hilt was made of gold and decorated with intricate designs.
Most importantly, its blade claimed to be sharp enough to cut through an anvil.
At Battling Blades, we offer a variety of swords that would be similar to Gram, especially our range of longswords.
In fact, our Longsword/Bastard Sword is the perfect example!
As a hand-and-a-half sword, it’s a perfect representation of Gram, especially since it’s forged with High Carbon Damascus Steel.
With its sharp, sturdy blade and elegant design, this longsword is the perfect addition to any collection of historical weaponry.
Of course, if you’re more interesting in checking out viking swords, Battling Blades offers a whole collection of those, too!
Famous Sword #5: Joyeuse
Joyeuse is a famous sword name that most associate with Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor.
According to the legend, Joyeuse was a holy sword forged by a famed smith, Galas.
This famous sword had the power to protect its owner and give victory in battle.
In short, though, Joyeuse is defined as a longsword.
It has a blade that is 32 inches long and 1.8 inches wide.
It was also said to have three different colors on the blade - gold, red, and blue.
These represented the virtues of Faith, Hope, and Charity, thus also cementing Joyeuse’s position as one of the religious swords.
And, of course, as a sword, Joyeuse was known for its enduring, long-lasting power.
Moreover, it's supposed 'magical properties' could apparently help its wielder in battle.
Battling Blades offers a variety of longswords that are similar in style and function to Joyeuse.
One such sword is the Norman Knightly Longsword.
This particular blade is based on the design of medieval European swords.
Furthermore, it features a blade made of high-carbon Damascus steel and is just slightly longer at 38 inches.
Like Joyeuse, the Norman Knightly Longsword is an incredible blade, amazing as a replica sword for a collector or re-enactor.
Famous Sword #6: Zulfiqar
Zulfiqar is a legendary blade that is pretty important in Islamic mythology and history, especially Shia history.
According to the story, the angel Jibrael gifted it to the Prophet Muhammad.
The sword was then used by Ali ibn Abi Talib, the son-in-law of the Prophet, in the Battle of Uhud.
Moreover, it is believed to have been used by other leaders and is considered a symbol of strength and power.
In terms of design, the sword has a distinctive bifurcated structure with two points.
This is in some ways believed to represent the dual nature of Islam: the temporal and the spiritual.
Moreover, the blade is evidently made of steel and is adorned with decorative inscriptions and religious symbols.
And as one of the most popular religious swords, it also holds a place in the hall of mythological weapons.
In any case, in popular Shia depictions, this famous holy sword is seen as a scimitar.
Battling Blades offers a similar selection of replica legendary blades in its collection of scimitars.
One of these is the Arabian Scimitar made of of Damascus Steel and reaching 37 inches.
This sword features a curved blade and a double edged design.
Most importantly, as a replica, it’s a powerful representation of a legendary blade wielded by a famous swordsman in mythology.
Famous Sword #7: Tyrfing
Tyrfing is a famous sword name from Norse mythology that plays a significant role in many legendary tales.
According to the legends, the sword was created by dwarves for Svafrlami, the king of Gardariki.
However, the sword was cursed (associated with demonic sword names), bringing great misfortune to those who wielded it.
The sword is said to be exceptionally sharp and deadly, capable of cutting through any armor or shield.
It’s also said never to miss its target, making it a deadly weapon in the hands of a skilled warrior.
Note: Learn more about the story behind Tyrfing here.
Keeping such demonic swords in mythology in mind, let’s talk about replicas.
Battling Blades offers a range of swords similar in memory and association to Tyrfing.
There’s a great divide in terms of the functionality of the sword, but it’s association to Norse mythology is clear.
So why not check out Viking swords due to their association with Norse history?
Moreover, these viking swords are crafted from high-quality materials which makes them both durable and functional.
You can specifically check out the Carolingian Viking Sword! It’s 38 inches long and made of high carbon Damascus steel.
With their sleek and stylish designs, these swords are perfect for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone else who’s interested!
Famous Sword #8: Hrunting
In Anglo-Saxon mythology, Hrunting is one of the famous weapons names wielded by Beowulf in his battle against Grendel.
According to the tale, Hrunting was given to Beowulf by the blacksmith Unferth as a symbol of support and admiration.
The sword was said to be enchanted and was believed to have magical powers to invincible the wielder in battle.
Hrunting was a relatively famous sword - it had a keen edge and a finely crafted hilt according to the story.
It was believed to be a longsword or broadsword; in other words, a double-edged blade with a pointed tip.
The legendary blade was also said to be made from the finest materials.
Additionally, the edge was razor-sharp and nigh-unbreakable.
Some legends also claim that the sword had magic powers!
These powers, of course, ensured the blade would glow for the user in the presence of danger.
Of course, magic isn’t real… but blades can still be replicated.
Battling Blades offers a variety of longswords that are similar in construction and design, especially in terms of edges and lengths.
Choose a replica sword today!
Famous Sword #9: Harpe
Harpe is probably one of the most famous swords in Greek mythology, and its story is steeped in significance.
However, Harpe was first wielded by Kronos, father of Zeus, when he fought against the Olympian gods with other titans.
Perseus later used it to slay Medusa, who had snakes as hair and could petrify people with a look.
- The sword is said to have had a curved blade, a sharp point, and a hooked end.
- This made it an excellent tool for beheading enemies.
- In clearer terms, the Harpe sword is a type of sickle sword.
- It is characterized by its curved blade that has a hook at the end.
- This unique design made the sword particularly effective in close combat.
- This is because it allowed the user to disarm opponents by hooking their weapons or their limbs.
- The sword was also versatile in its usage - it could trust, slash, and cut.
- That is one of the reasons why Greek sword names have been so famous throughout history!
If you're interested in owning a sword similar to Harpe, Battling Blades offers a wide range of Greek swords.
Their collections include swords with curved blades, hooks, and even knives, helmets, and armor!
One of their products is the Kopis sword, made of high carbon steel and 19 inches long.
It is the perfect start for collecting replicas of the coolest swords in history.
Famous Sword #10: Ascalon
Ascalon was one of mythology’s legendary holy swords with a significant history in Christian mythology.
According to the legends, the famous sword was given by Saint Catherine of Alexandria to Saint George.
Saint George was a Christian martyr and a protector of the Kingdom of Lydda in Palestine.
Thus, Saint George used Ascalon to slay the dragon terrorizing the people of Lydda, making him a revered figure.
Even beyond his persona, though, Ascalon itself remains one of the most venerable religious swords in mythology.
It is often referred to as a long, broadsword capable of piercing through any armor.
Moreover, it is said to have been made from the same metal as the nails used to crucify Jesus Christ.
Additionally, the sword also has a cross engraved in it, symbolizing its connection to Christianity as a holy sword.
Keeping note of the religious perspective, Battling Blades recalls another conneciton to the battle for Christianity.
The Crusader Bundle, in memory of Christianity’s battle for domination, offers multiple products.
One of these is a longsword representing a high quality replica of a famous sword.
Alone, it might not represent Ascalon, but with the other items, you can portray a true Christian Crusader.
The Bottom Line
Swords have played a significant role in shaping the mythologies and histories of various cultures worldwide.
From the Norse and Irish mythologies to Christian and Islamic beliefs, swords have been revered as symbols of power, heroism, and justice.
Even today, swords captivate people's imaginations and inspire awe and respect.
Of course, there are many more mythological weapons and legendary blades throughout history that we haven’t covered.
Find a more exhaustive list of those mythical weapons (specifically swords) here!
On the other hand, if you’d like a replica or a real life sword for your own collection, Battling Blade offers great products!
These products are meticulously crafted to match the original swords in appearance and performance, making them an absolute must-have!
In summary, the timeless appeal of swords continues to endure, and Battling Blades is keeping that legacy alive by providing authentic replicas of the most famous swords from myth and history.
With their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Battling Blades is the go-to destination for sword enthusiasts and collectors.