Durendal

ROLAND

THE CAROLINGIAN EMPIRE

Roland dispatching his enemies with Durendal

Durendal is said to be a Christian sword. It is described in the Matter of France as a blade that shone pure, with a golden hilt blessed by Saint Peter’s tooth, Saint Basil’s blood, Saint Denis’ hair and a piece of raiment of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is also a testament to the divine skills of the legendary Wayland the Smith.

Durendal symbolized the rise of Christianity in Europe during the eighth century, with the expansion of the Carolingian Empire, founded by Charlemagne. In particular, the Matter of France idolizes Roland, Charlemagne’s military leader, as a champion of Christianity. According to historical accounts, specifically Vita Karoli Magni, Roland had served Charlemagne in the campaign against the Bretons. Although Charlemagne was able to subdue the Bretons without any bloodshed, he was ambushed on his way back home. Roland fought valiantly to protect his emperor. While he staved off the ambush, he died in the process. Consequently, his sacrifice became the stuff of legends.

Durendal, a representation

Indeed, the Matter of France claims that an Angel blessed Roland with Durendal. Also, instead of fighting the Bretons, Roland was tasked to defeat the Islamic forces as Charlemagne’s right-hand man. With Durendal, Roland was able to single-handedly fight off a hundred-thousand-strong Muslim army. In fact, the sword was so sharp that it could cut through an armored soldier in a single strike.

However, while Roland was victorious in many military campaigns against the Muslims, he was only one mortal man, blessed as he was. The vast Muslim army, with strength in numbers, finally defeated him at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass. A true warrior, Roland still had the presence of mind to hide Durendal under his dying body, so that his enemies could not acquire it.

alleged fragment of Durendal in Rocamadour

There are some accounts claiming that Durendal is now part of a cliff wall in Rocamadour, a historical town in south-western France. Unfortunately, such rumors have yet to be proven true.