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Welcome to Gaillimh Gallóglaigh

Where History Meets Martial Arts in the Heart of the West

Our Legacy

The Gallóglaigh—meaning "foreign warriors"—were legendary Scottish-Gaelic mercenaries who served Irish chieftains as elite warriors and trusted commanders. Known for their unwavering loyalty and fierce combat skills, they became legendary for holding their ground in battle, no matter the odds.
 

Today, we carry their name with pride in Galway, continuing their martial legacy through the study of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA).

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Who We Are

Our Approach

At Gaillimh Gallóglaigh, we believe in learning together. Our instructors aren't elevated masters—we're passionate practitioners who share our knowledge to keep these historical arts alive. We embrace both excellence and humility in our practice, acknowledging that we're all on a journey of continuous learning (well, except for Hex).

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"They remained in their ranks, battered, bloodied but not broken. They did not retreat, or give inch or quarter... They stood waiting, for the assault, holding ground they had soaked in their enemy's blood... They raised their weapons, shouted their battle cry and plunged at their foe..."

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Do you have the metal? Join us and become part of this living history.

Based in Galway, we're a diverse community of HEMA practitioners welcoming members and instructors from around the globe. Our training spans centuries of martial traditions, including:

  • German, Italian, and English Longsword

  • Polish and English Saber

  • Italian Rapier

  • And various other historical weapons

Gaillimh Gallóglaigh

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