Dacian Sign

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In ancient texts, the falx was described as an ensis falcatus by Ovid in his Metamorphose and as a falx supina by Juvenal in Satiriae. The Dacian falx came in two sizes: one-handed and two-handed. The shorter variant was called sica by the Dacians, with a blade length that varied but was usually around 16 inches long, accompanied by a handle one-third longer than the blade. Archaeological evidence indicates that the one-handed falx was also used two-handed. The blade was sharpened only on the inside and was known to be devastatingly effective. However, it left its user vulnerable because being a two-handed weapon, the warrior could not use a shield. It may be imagined that the length of the two-handed falx allowed it to be wielded with great force, piercing helmets and splitting shields - it was said to split a shield in two at a single blow. Alternatively, it might be used as a hook, pulling away shields and cutting at vulnerable limbs, or striking the edge of a strong shield. The inward curving point was still able to pierce armor or flesh behind the shield, making even the most reinforced shields less effective against a falx wielder. The monument "Dacian sign" was modeled after laborious documentation and represents a Dacian falx. This was the most effective weapon of the Dacians, which determined the Romans to change their helmets and shields after the war of 101-102, as they weren't strong enough due to the edge located on the inside curve of the weapon, its hitpower and the sickle effect given by the weapon's conformation were a destructive combination. The gigantic falx, measuring 3.5 meters high, made of bronze and brass, is placed on a pedestal of 2.5 meters of concrete reinforced with iron that has a sign saying the monument is dedicated to the memory of Decebalus.