Weapons, crafted from metallic, organic, or mineral materials, serve as evidence of the technical skills of ancient societies. They also reflect key transformations in practices of violence.

The evolution of both production methods and combat techniques invites us to reflect on how different materials and weapon types coexisted, overlapped or replaced each other. This second edition of the “Armes et Guerriers” conference aims to explore these connections drawing on archaeological sources while also taking into account iconographic, textual, and epigraphic data. From the craftsmanship to the use of weapons, this event seeks to examine the transformation processes of raw materials—from extraction and shaping to use and eventual abandonment of the artefact. Through the application of various analytical methods, across Europe and the Mediterranean Basin, from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages, there's matter for discussion!

The often composite nature of the materials chosen for weapon manufacture reflects broader dynamics of innovation and adaptation within ancient societies. The use of various materials (stone, metal, wood, textile, terracotta, animal-based materials, etc.) whether combined or not, in the making of offensive and defensive weaponry, implies specific supply strategies, forms of craft organization, and technical knowledge adapted to each material. The production of such objects responds to functional needs, specific uses, and desired performance. But beyond its purely mechanical and physical properties, matter also holds in ancient societies an aesthetic, symbolic, and social importance.

Focusing on materials means examining the relationships between the craftsman, the bearer, and the use of weapons. This perspective also raises broader questions regarding circulation and management of raw materials, as well as the skills and techniques of those who produced and wielded these instruments. Ultimately, it is an invitation to explore the full life cycle of weapons.

The scientific committee and the organizing committee will ensure that each presentation aligns with the conference theme. The issues addressed and the results must be clearly stated in the abstract and will be taken into account when selecting presentations.

The main language of the event is French; presentations in English are also accepted.

Available presentation formats:
• Presentation format: a 20-minute oral presentation followed by a 10-minute discussion.
• Flash format: a 5-minute oral presentation followed by a 5-minute discussion.
• Poster: written presentation without an oral presentation (A0 format).

Abstracts (300 words) must be submitted via the "New Submission" tab. Submissions are open until September 19, 2025 (inclusive).

The proceedings of Armes & Guerriers 2 will be published. All presenters, regardless of the chosen presentation format, will have the opportunity to publish in this peer-reviewed volume.

For any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at: armesetguerriers@gmail.com.