The Israel Antiquities Authority claims that a sword thought to belong to a Crusader, who sailed to Holy Land nearly a millennium back, was recovered from the Mediterranean seabed by an amateur diver.
Although it was encrusted in marine organisms the blade, handle and hilt were a metre long. However, they were easy to spot after undercurrents shifted sands that had hidden them.
Koby Sharvit, IAA, holds a sword thought to be belonging to a crusader who traveled to the Holy Land nearly a millennium back. Photograph: Ronen Zvulun/Reuters
According to Koby Sharvit (director of the authority's marine archaeology division), the location of the natural cove, near Haifa port, suggests that it was used as a shelter by seafarers.
He said that merchant ships have been attracted to these areas over the centuries, leaving behind valuable archaeological remains.
After it has been restored and cleaned, the sword, which is believed to be approximately 900 years old will be displayed.
