Academie Duello is a Centre for Swordplay teaching authentic Western martial arts rooted in Medieval and Early Modern European combat manuals. Located at 412 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver, they've been running for over 20 years and operate a 7,500 sq ft studio purpose-built for martial ...
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Academie Duello is a Centre for Swordplay teaching authentic Western martial arts rooted in Medieval and Early Modern European combat manuals. Located at 412 West Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver, they've been running for over 20 years and operate a 7,500 sq ft studio purpose-built for martial training.
Their mission isn't re-enactment—it's reviving living European martial traditions and making them as accessible as Eastern martial arts like Karate or Kung Fu.
Academie Duello offers structured courses and drop-in adventures across multiple weapon systems:
Formal Programs (8-class beginner courses): - Rapier - Renaissance duelling weapon with footwork and blade technique - Longsword - Two-handed medieval sword with sword-and-shield variants - Archery - Modern recurve bow fundamentals, history, range safety, and technique - Polearms, wrestling, and mounted combat (at partner facility Cornwall Ridge Equestrian in Langley)
How They Work: - Free trial classes available for swordplay and archery - 8-class beginner programs teach fundamentals in a fun, welcoming format - Ongoing weekly schedule plus intensive workshops - All levels and ages welcome—no prior experience needed
Not ready for an 8-week course? They offer 1-2 hour drop-in adventures:
| Adventure | What You Do | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cutter | Cut and slice targets with real medieval swords | Learn foundational technique safely |
| Duellist | Learn rapier basics and duel with teammates | Try Renaissance fencing |
| Warrior | Train with armor, longsword, dagger, and grappling | Medieval warrior experience |
| Tournament | Full longsword tournament with instruction | Friendly competition |
| Archer | Learn recurve bow fundamentals and shoot targets | Focus and precision practice |
| Axe Thrower | Learn technique and throw real axes at targets | Pure satisfaction and stress relief |
They specialize in custom team events:
Format Options: - Small teams (5–20): Book instantly online with same-day confirmation - Large groups (20–150+): Custom quotes, flexible scheduling, rotating stations - Full-day Medieval Festival (up to 120 people, 3-4 hours): Activities stations, hands-on museum, performances
Add-Ons Available: - Medieval Battle (foam sword combat) - Rapier Candle Snuffing (precision target work) - Hammerschlagen (nail-driving competition) - Giant Jenga, darts, archery, axe throwing - Knight Performance with live armor demonstrations - On-site catering and alcohol service
Why Teams Book Here: - Expert, safety-first coaches; fully insured - All equipment included - Beautiful downtown venue or mobile services across Greater Vancouver - Flexible formats from high-intensity competition to collaborative exploration - Can accommodate 5 to 150+ people
For booking: Groups of 20 or fewer book through their online platform. Larger groups get a custom quote via phone (604) 568-9907 or email [email protected].
Academie Duello's curriculum is based on primary-source combat manuals from the Medieval and Renaissance periods. Their three-word motto reflects their values:
Every class begins with the school salute—a moment of respect and focus.
Cafe Duello serves smoothies, pastries, espresso drinks, and lunch fare. They also sell gift certificates (a perfect way to introduce friends to swordplay or archery), instructional books on Italian Rapier, and DVDs on longsword technique.
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Address | 412 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1L1 |
| Phone | (604) 568-9907 |
| Hours | Check website for current schedule |
| Venue Size | 7,500 sq ft |
| Group Sizes | 5–150+ people |
| Gear | All equipment provided and included |
| Experience Required | None—beginner-friendly |
| Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor, year-round |
| Insurance | Fully insured |
| Mobile Options | Yes, travel across Greater Vancouver |
| Catering | On-site cafe + partner catering available |
"We've been providing awesome experiences for teams of all sizes for more than 20 years."
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