Part of the early medieval axes, with probable combat functions, in today’s Bulgarian lands
Part of the early medieval axes, with probable combat functions, in today’s Bulgarian lands

Summary/Abstract: This publication aims to present a series of axes from the Early Middle Ages found in the territories of present-day Bulgaria, which are said to have performed combat functions. Some of them were found in graves, combined with edged weapons, spearheads, and horse harnesses. Due to the context of the discovery and the accompanying findings, it can be assumed that they can be used more as weapons than as tools. Another part of axes, although out of context, gives us reason to identify them as combat weapons because of their morphological features. The shape of the axe-blade and butt (in some cases shape like a hammer, in others like a spike) suggests they were used in warfare, not in agriculture. Data obtained from several Byzantine written and drawn sources further support this claim. Finally, interesting representative specimens encrusted with precious metals, most likely lacked useful weapon functions. They were probably a (distinctive) symbol of their owner's high social and/or military status.

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