Cao Zhen

caozhen0806@126.com

FOR the first time in Shenzhen, the epic saga of European knights, along with their armor, myths, and legends, is being featured in a noteworthy exhibition of pieces from the Musei Reali Torino in Italy.

The “Steel of Glory: A Knight’s Life of Armor, Blade, and Honor” exhibition has attracted throngs of visitors daily since opening at the Nanshan Museum on March 21.

The exhibition traces the history of knighthood from the 9th century, when favorable economic and social conditions led to the birth of the feudal system in Europe, to the golden age between the 12th to 15th centuries, when knights became a distinct social class and the ideals of chivalry, loyalty, and martial prowess were highly celebrated.

The exhibition features 140 dazzling pieces, including armor, helmets, breastplates, shields, swords, and other treasures, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ceremonial and tournament weapons and armor in Europe between the 16th and 19th centuries.

Highlights include an imposing and elaborately decorated horse armor, a rare suit of armor for a child, gilded brass stirrups, an exotic gilded cinquedea, a mysterious shaffron, an exquisite sword, a unique parade helmet belonging to Umberto I, a helmet with a dolphin-shaped mask, and the sword of honor of Vittorio Emanuele II. These valuable exhibits present a captivating chapter of European history, underscoring its rich cultural heritage.

Detailed English descriptions are provided throughout the exhibition, and visitors can join a guided tour at 2:30 p.m. during its opening days to learn more about the stories behind each exhibit. Additionally, visitors can try on a replica of a knight’s suit of armor at the exhibition.

Dates: Through June 22

Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Tue.-Fri., Sun.), 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Saturdays), closed Mondays

Tickets: Free, no reservations required

Venue: Nanshan Museum, Nanshan District (南山区南山博物馆)

Metro: Line 1 or 12 to Taoyuan Station (桃园站), Exit B