Crossbowmen

The Balestrieri dell'Oca of Cagli company was founded in compliance with historical criteria and the numerous testimonies that make the presence of the crossbow in the area certain. An important confirmation of this theory is provided by the figure of Accorsoli Annibale, who, in the 15th century, fought on horseback leading the crossbowmen at the court of Federico da Montefeltro, Duke of Urbino.

The ancient man-portable crossbow (balestra manesca) represents a true work of art in artisan engraving: in ancient times, this weapon was even capable of deciding the fate of a battle. Used without any support, the man-portable crossbow basically consists of three elements: a bow, a release mechanism, and an aiming mechanism. The bow represents, without a doubt, the most important element of the weapon, the one that determines its effectiveness, power, and precision.

The type of wood used to make the stock, together with the decorations and inlays present on the body of the weapon, make the crossbow a true masterpiece of artisan engraving art.

The Balestrieri dell'Oca company, thanks to the fascinating exhibitions it proposes, shows all the potential of the crossbow, broadly highlighting all its absolute precision and its great shooting power.

The Renaissance challenges are represented as faithfully as possible: the thrilling battle scenes and the demonstrations of skill and precision with the "tasso del balestriere", the group or individual shots, and the launching of incendiary arrows are able to keep the spectators in suspense and immerse them in the evocative atmosphere of the time.