Freifechter

Die Freifechter is a Cologne-based club dedicated to historical fencing, HEMA, and sword combat. Its training draws on original historical sources from the periods in which the weapons were used, offering members an opportunity to study fencing in its historical context. The club welcomes adults with or without previous experience and emphasizes a respectful, open atmosphere and an equal-footing club culture.

Regular sessions take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays near the Cologne Trade Fair. Tuesday training focuses on sabre, while Thursday sessions cover longsword and long knife. Both evenings also include time for free fencing or independent practice. Prospective members can arrange a free trial session, with advance registration requested.

The Freifechter share updates and impressions through YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. They are also members of the German umbrella organization for historical fencing, the Deutscher Dachverband für Historisches Fechten (DDHF). Whether someone is beginning to explore HEMA or already has fencing experience, the club provides a setting to learn and practise historical martial arts together.