Civilian Diver Discovers and Donates to the State
[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] A sword presumed to be from the Crusaders over 900 years ago was discovered in the Mediterranean Sea near the Carmel coast in northern Israel.
The Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) announced on the 18th (local time) that a sword and its hilt, with a blade length of 1 meter and weighing about 1.8 kg, were found underwater near the port city of Haifa, which borders the Mediterranean Sea. Haifa was occupied by the Crusaders in the early 12th century and is believed to have served as a refuge for sailors.
The sword was first discovered by a civilian diver, who donated the artifact to the state. The discovered sword will undergo restoration work and will be exhibited in a museum.
Investigator Nir Distelfeld said, "The sword is perfectly preserved and is a beautiful and rare find," adding, "It is clearly the property of the Crusaders."
He continued, "Although covered with marine life, it appears to be made of iron. It is fascinating to come across personal items such as the armor or sword of a knight who lived in a different era 900 years ago."
Kobi Sharvit, head of the Authority’s Marine Archaeology Department, said, "Swords found are usually in poor condition, but this sword is very well preserved despite being found underwater," adding, "This is the first time we have found such a beautiful sword."
He explained that the Carmel coast served as a shelter for ships to avoid storms for centuries, saying, "These conditions have left behind rich archaeological discoveries."
Meanwhile, the Crusades were religious wars initiated by Pope Urban II, who dispatched Christian expeditions called the Crusaders to reclaim the holy city of Jerusalem from Islamic forces. The Crusaders were sent out in eight campaigns, and the wars lasted for about 200 years.
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