In the Middle Ages, foot soldiers struggled to fight powerful knights on horseback with ordinary weapons like swords or axes. For battle, various types of pole weapons were provided for infantry. Blade- or axe-shaped elements were mounted on top of the shafts to fight knights. Until the advent of firearms, the halberd was a common combat tool used by the “halberdier” to strike or stab an attacking enemy.
In the Dendermonde processions, the halberdiers have a much more peaceful and noble role. They form the honor guard of the Ros Beiaard (and the Guild giants during Katuit). This group of performers accompanies the Ros until the very last moment, until it returns to its stable for the next ten years.
