''Tizona'', The Sword of El Cid

By Crusader1307

The fighting weapon of the Legendary Spanish Knight ‘’El Cid’’ (Rodrigo Diaz).  Although El Cid may have had as many as three "Legendary" Swords, ‘’Tizona’’ is considered an "Excalibur-type" weapon in Spain. Said to have used Tizona and her "Sisters" to rid Spain of The Moors, Tizona is a highly recognized Medieval blade in many circles. The sword has the typical Spanish upward curved crossguards and a highly ornate handle. It is a cross between art and battle blade. Tizona fits into the classification of Longsword. The blade is 45 to 50 inches in length and weights upwards of 3 pounds. A long blood groove extends down both sides of the blade. Made for El Cid in 1040 A.D. - many historians have debated this date as closer to 1002 A.D. The blade has double inscription engravings. One side bears the inscription "I Am Tizona". The other side  has "Hail Mary, Full of Grace - The Lord is With Thee". Constructed of Damascus steel, Tizona is currently displayed in Madrid, Spain.