It is half past six in the evening. In the garden of the Ateneu barcelonès, a group of ladies are discussing literature and two young people are talking about love problems. When Carles Tudó walks between the tables, everyone turns to look at his uniform, with breeches inspired by those of the 16th century worn by the Lansquenets, German mercenaries. Tudó is one of Europe's leading experts in classical fencing and this year he is in charge of teaching the fencing courses that the Ateneu barcelonès has revived more than 140 years after the last time the clash of sabers echoed through its halls. The sessions are held in the elegant Jacint Verdaguer hall of the Ateneu, among volumes of centuries-old books and busts of writers. "We have exhausted all places and have a waiting list," explains Tudó while preparing the swords.