Innovation No. 60 of 77 in the book
Fencing
Training with padded weapons and a referee
- When
- c. 1180 BCE
- Dynasty
- 20th Dynasty
- Era
- New Kingdom
The oldest depiction of fencing as a sport — sparring safely under rules — is Egyptian, carved around 1180 BCE at the temple of Medinet Habu.
The fencers use sticks tipped with padded guards, wear face masks and arm shields, and — crucially — a referee stands watching while spectators cheer.
Every element of modern fencing is there: blunted weapons, protective gear, an official, an audience. It is a match, not a fight to the death.
Competitive fencing, safety rules and all, was first staged in Egypt.
The reliefs are carved into the mortuary temple of Ramesses III at Medinet Habu, around 1190 BCE. Athletes wear face masks with chin and throat guards and hold button-tipped practice sticks. The captions are the crucial part: they show referees and judges tracking valid hits and calling scores, which makes this a regulated competition rather than training or combat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the officials actually say?
One recorded call is a judge announcing "You have no opponent!" — declaring a victory beyond dispute. It is the ancient equivalent of a stoppage or a knockout call.
What makes this a sport and not a fight?
Four things at once: the weapons are blunted, the fencers wear protective gear, an official rules on hits, and an audience is present. Remove any one and it reads differently; together they describe a match.