AbrazareGrappling
The foundation of Fiore's art. Wrestling techniques that underpin every weapon system.
Armoured & UnarmouredEst. 2014 · Penzance, Cornwall
HEMA
Penzance
The complete fighting system of
Fiore dei Liberi
The Art of Fiore dei Liberi
In 1409, the Italian master-at-arms Fiore dei Liberi completed his treatise Fior di Battaglia, The Flower of Battle. It is one of the most comprehensive fighting manuals to survive from the medieval period.
His system is complete: from unarmed grappling through dagger, longsword, spear, and pollaxe, Fiore teaches a unified approach to combat that flows between weapons and ranges. At HEMA Penzance, we study and practise this system as a living martial art.
What We Teach
DagaDagger
Close-quarters combat with disarms, locks, and counters.
Armoured & UnarmouredSpada in una manoLongsword in One Hand
Single-handed longsword play; the versatility of a true swordsman.
UnarmouredSpada a due maniLongsword
The heart of what we do. This is the weapon you will train with every session.
Armoured & UnarmouredLanciaSpear
Long-weapon techniques emphasising reach, timing, and transitions to close combat.
Armoured & UnarmouredAzzaPollaxe
The premier weapon of armoured foot combat. Head, spike, and butt in devastating combination.
Armoured & UnarmouredYour First Lesson
When
Tuesdays, 7pm – 9pm
Where
Penzance Leisure Centre, St Clare, Penzance
Cost
First lesson free.
£7.00 per session thereafter.
Equipment
All training equipment is provided. Just wear comfortable clothing you can move in.
Non-Training Nights
There will be no training on the following dates:
- Tuesday 6th January
- Tuesday 3rd February
- Tuesday 12th May
- Tuesday 26th May
- Tuesday 2nd June
- Tuesday 21st July
Upcoming Events
May
9–10
2026
FABLEFUSION at Pendennis Castle
Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, Cornwall
Come and see HEMA Penzance at Pendennis Castle for FABLEFUSION, a high fantasy and gaming festival hosted by Game On Cornwall. Armoured combat, medieval market, and more across a full weekend at one of Cornwall’s most iconic castles.
Come Train With Us
No experience necessary. All levels welcome. Come along on a Tuesday evening and discover the martial art of medieval Europe.
From the Blog
What Happens at a HEMA Class
A complete guide to what your first HEMA lesson looks like — from warm-up to sparring, what to wear, and what to expect when you walk through the door.
The Seven Swords: Fiore's Lines of Attack
Understanding the sette colpi della spada — the seven blows of the sword in Fiore dei Liberi's fighting system, from the cleaving fendente to the cruel and deadly thrust.
The Twelve Guards of Fiore's Longsword
A guide to the twelve poste (guards) of Fiore dei Liberi's longsword system, from the foundational Porta di Ferro to the versatile Posta di Donna.