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Freifechter von Vilnius
LT
Freifechter von Vilnius coat of arms - a fox holding a sword

VU HEMA club · Vilnius

Freifechter von Vilnius

A historical European martial arts club practising longsword fencing based on the 15th–18th century German tradition.

Come to your first training

About HEMA and us

What is HEMA?

HEMA stands for Historical European Martial Arts - a modern sport and field of study that reconstructs European fighting traditions from surviving medieval and Renaissance fencing treatises.

Our club

Freifechter von Vilnius is the Vilnius University historical fencing club, founded in 2025. We practise longsword fencing in the German tradition - the Kunst des Fechtens.

The two-handed longsword is the most widely practised HEMA weapon in the world. Training covers cuts, thrusts, guards and the so-called binds (German: binden), where the two blades meet and each fighter tries to take control of the opponent's weapon.

Training

Everyone is welcome - not just students. No experience needed: we start from the basics, and sparring comes when you are ready for it.

Every other month we hold an introductory training for newcomers and announce its time and place on social media. When you see the “Introduction to HEMA” event, fill in the registration form in it and come along!

We provide the protective gear and swords - all you need to bring is comfortable sportswear, indoor sports shoes and a water bottle.

When

  • Saturday17:00 - 18:30

Times may change - we post the latest updates on Facebook and Instagram.

Where

Saulėtekio al. 26, Vilnius
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Instructors

Instructors Kastytis Bandžiulis and Daina Juana Gariboldi with a longsword and a buckler

Training is led by experienced HEMA fencers who will help you take your first steps and keep improving.

  • Kastytis BandžiulisInstructor
  • Daina Juana GariboldiInstructor

Frequently asked questions

Do I need experience or to be very fit?

No. We start from the basics - guards, footwork and fundamental cuts. Your fitness improves as you train.

Do I need to be a Vilnius University student?

No. The club is based at Vilnius University, but everyone is welcome.

Is it safe?

As in any other contact sport, there is a risk of injury. Beginners learn techniques individually or in pairs, but free sparring takes place only with protective gear and only when you are ready for it.

How much does it cost?

Your first training is free. For Vilnius University students, the training fee is 10€/month, for everyone else - 20€/month.

What do I need for my first training?

Comfortable sportswear, clean sports shoes and water. We will lend you training swords and protective gear.

Will I need to buy my own gear?

Not at first. Once you decide to continue, we will advise you on where to start.

Partners

Thank you to those who help us grow.

Contact

Questions, or want to come to a training? Get in touch.