Ancient Sword Discovered off the Coast of Israel

An ancient sword discovered by a scuba diver off the coast of Israel may have been dropped in the sea by a Crusader knight 900 years ago, researchers claim.

The 3ft long weapon was found on the Mediterranean seabed in a natural cove near the port city of Haifa, according to the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA).

Despite being encrusted with marine organisms, the hilt and handle were distinctive enough for an 'eagle-eyed' amateur diver to notice, after undercurrents apparently shifted sands that had concealed it for almost a millennia.

The natural cover in which the sword was discovered likely served as a shelter for seafarers passing through, said Kobi Sharvit, from the IAA marine archaeology unit.

'These conditions have attracted merchant ships down the ages, leaving behind rich archaeological finds,' he said.

The sword, believed to be around 900-1000 years old, will be put on display after it has been cleaned and restored to its former glory.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-10103849/Sharp-eyed-diver-recovers-crusader-sword-Med-seabed.html

if you have done scuba, youll know that just doesnt happen like that. if it did, more would be salvaged. as it is, even hollystones are rare, and they are the most common article to be available to be found.

I had scuba diving lessons in a pool in Fiji. No thanks. It wasn't for me.