BOLOGNESE TRADITION
.
EVERETT, WA
Train the art
Of the sidesword
Of the sidesword
Authentic 16th-century Italian swordsmanship — reconstructed from the original masters and trained every Tuesday night.
THE BOLOGNESE FENCING MASTERS
Antonio Manciolino · 1531
Achille Marozzo · 1536
Giovanni dall'Agocchie · 1572
Angelo Viggiani · 1575
Anonimo Bolognese · Early 1500s
The Bolognese Tradition
One of the most complete fighting systems in all of HEMA.
The Bolognese sidesword tradition was developed in Renaissance-era Bologna and preserved in the treatises of masters who taught the art of arms as both a practical skill and a refined discipline. It is a true martial art — technical, athletic, and deeply rewarding to learn.
At Snohomish Dueling Society, this is our primary program. Tuesday night sidesword class is where the real work happens. You will learn why techniques work, not just how to perform them — drawing directly from the original sources that have survived 500 years.
What you’ll train
SIDESWORD ALONE
The best option to learn the foundations of footwork, guards, cutting and thrusting mechanics, measure and timing. The foundation of the entire system.
SWORD & BUCKLER
The most dynamic and athletic pairing in the system. An artifact of the medieval systems, it teaches the use of the offhand and concepts of passive defense.
SWORD & DAGGER
The most technical and precise pairing, simultaneous offense and defense at close measure. A demanding and rewarding combination.
SWORD & ROTELLA
Working with a larger shield for enhanced protection and learning how to maneuver around a large obstacle.
POLEARMS
Use of a variety of pole weapons and greatswords with the context of being in armor and without.
DAGGER ALONE
Close-quarter techniques applied on the streets of Bologna. Learn grappling and proficiency with short weapons.
The Art of arms
genuinely fun
A typical Tuesday session runs two hours. Expect structured drilling, partnered technique work, and supervised free play as you progress.
Classes are led by an experienced instructor who teaches from the primary sources and can explain the context and reasoning behind everything you're learning.
“I never knew learning sword fighting would be this rewarding!”
Wherever you want to take it — fitness, competition, scholarship, or just something completely different — SDS is here to support what success means to you.
Class Details
WHEN
Every Tuesday 6:30 - 8:30 PM
WHERE
Cascade Boys & Girls Club 7600 Cascade Dr, Everett WA 98203
DURATION
2 hours
COST
Included with SDS Membership · $65/mo
EQUIPMENT
Loaner gear available for new students
READY TO BEGIN?
Start where
Everyone starts
New to HEMA? The Saturday Fundamentals Class is your entry point. Four sessions and you’ll be ready for Tuesday nights.