Weapons complex of 13th–15th centuries from necropolis of Alt-Wehlau

The paper explores weapons items that were found by research of necropolis Alt-Wehlau and gives an insight into the material culture related to the military service of the Prussians for the Teutonic Order. For this goal the composition and morphological features of 140 items found in 63 graves dating to the 13th – 15th centuries as well as in ploughing horizon that are mainly referred to offensive weapons (swords, spears, javelins, axes, a mace, and daggers) were examined. The analysis of their composition demonstrates a gradual transition from richly decorated items to less ornate weapons because of fewer differences in the status of the noble and that of the commoners, as well as use of smaller size types of weapons (e. g. spears and daggers) suitable to be used by light cavalry. At the same time, morphological changes of spears (lengthening and narrowing of the blade to fight against the armour) indicate that the Prussians adopted new trends in the military matters.