In 2021, divers unearthed a medieval sword adorned with seashells and encrusted with sand at the bottom of the Mediterranean Sea near Palestine. Recent X-ray imaging of this Crusader sword reveals clear evidence of battle damage, indicating it likely suffered in combat between 800 and 900 years ago. The blade, measuring nearly 88 centimeters in length and 4.6 cm in width, offers a fascinating glimpse into history through its well-preserved yet battle-worn condition.

“We mostly find fragments, very few whole swords,” he added. “So far, seven swords from this period have been found in Israel, most of them discovered in the sea. Swords weren’t usually discarded, but over the years, once they were no longer in use, the metal was recycled for other purposes.”

The study revealed that the sword, with its 88 cm long and 4.6 cm wide blade, likely saw combat, as X-ray examination indicated it had been bent.

“The sword was part of a knight’s or warrior’s personal equipment. It was the main weapon in hand-to-hand combat in those days,” said Gosker. “Swords required a lot of quality iron and were therefore expensive. Additionally, sword fighting demanded training and practice, so only nobility and professional soldiers typically used them.”