Lobera (sword) facts for kids
The sword Lobera (which means "the wolf-slaying sword" in Spanish) was a special symbol of power for Saint Ferdinand III of Castile. Instead of carrying a royal staff, King Ferdinand III often held this sword. Because of this, you'll often see pictures of him with an orb (a symbol of royal power) and Lobera in his hand.
History of Lobera
Lobera was the famous sword of Saint Ferdinand III. He was the King of Castile starting in 1217 and also the King of León from 1230. King Ferdinand III continued the important work of his grandfather, Alfonso VIII of Castile. He helped to complete the Reconquista, which was a long period when Christian kingdoms took back land in Spain from Muslim rule.
In 1231, King Ferdinand III permanently joined the Kingdom of Castile and the Kingdom of León. He was seen as a great and brave knight during his time. Even Pope Innocent IV called him an "invincible champion of Jesus Christ." Today, the sword Lobera, along with Ferdinand's royal orb and the king himself, are shown on the badge of the Sevilla Fútbol Club.
What Lobera Means
The name Lobera comes from the Spanish word meaning "wolf huntress." This name suggests the sword was powerful and effective, like a hunter of wolves.
The Legend of Lobera
Don Juan Manuel, Prince of Villena, who was the grandson of King Ferdinand III, wrote about Lobera. In his book, Libro de los ejemplos del conde Lucanor y de Patronio (written in 1337), he said that Lobera was once the sword of Fernán González of Castile. Fernán González was a legendary hero from an old Spanish poem called the Poema de Fernán González. Don Juan Manuel described Lobera as a "sword of great virtue," meaning it had special powers or qualities.
Don Juan Manuel also wrote about King Ferdinand III's last moments. As the king was dying, he supposedly told Don Juan Manuel: "I cannot leave you any land or riches. But I give you my sword Lobera. It is worth a lot, and God has helped me do many good things with it." This story shows how much the sword meant to King Ferdinand III.
How Lobera Looks
Lobera is made of strong steel. Its blade is about 80 centimeters (or 31.5 inches) long. The sword also has beautiful silver decorations. Today, Lobera is considered a relic (a special historical or religious item). It is carefully kept in the Royal Chapel at the famous Seville Cathedral in Spain.
