Centuries ago, when men truly lived and died by the sword, many of the greatest warriors carried them. The superior craftsmanship and hardness of the Spanish blades made them the brand of choice among kings and conquerors. Toledans still make swords.

While ceremonial swords from their shops remain a favorite among military units worldwide, collectors and tourists make up a large portion of the customers. The famous swords also are a favorite holiday gift, especially for that hard-to-buy-for guy on the list. Sword shop owner Angelines Garrido, who operates what she believes to be one of the first sword-making factories in the city, said some of her best customers are American GIs.
“They love swords,” she said.

But you don’t have to go to Toledo to buy.
A simple Internet search will turn up numerous wholesalers offering a huge selection. Two gift shops at the Navy base in Rota, Spain, also sell swords from Toledo, and a store in town sells a wide selection. Engraved swords are hugely popular among sailors stationed at the Navy base.

Swords from Toledo, Spain, are legendary. Centuries ago, when men truly lived and died by the sword, many of the greatest warriors carried them. The superior craftsmanship and hardness of the Spanish blades made them the brand of choice among kings and conquerors. Toledans still make swords.

While ceremonial swords from their shops remain a favorite among military units worldwide, collectors and tourists make up a large portion of the customers. The famous swords also are a favorite holiday gift, especially for that hard-to-buy-for guy on the list.

Sword shop owner Angelines Garrido, who operates what she believes to be one of the first sword-making factories in the city, said some of her best customers are American GIs. “They love swords,” she said. But you don’t have to go to Toledo to buy.