Early Medieval Iron Axe from a Stronghold in Szydłów near Lutomiersk (Central Poland)

This paper presents an iron axe discovered in 1960 during archaeological research carried out at the Szydłów stronghold near Lutomiersk (Central Poland). The weapon was discussed typologically (variant IB.12.2 according to Piotr Kotowicz’s classification) and was subjected to metallographic and technological analyses. The axe head from Szydłów appears to be a product made with simple methods, without the use of more advanced manufacturing techniques to improve its fighting qualities. The analytical material obtained indicates the use of phosphorus iron from bog ores in the production of the axe. It can be assumed that the axe discovered at the Szydłów stronghold dates back to the 10th century. It could have been connected with the final stage of the stronghold’s existence (a fire suggesting military action), or with its presumed later settlement.