Sharp-eyed diver retrieves crossed sword from Mediterranean seabed

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CESAREA – A sword believed to have belonged to a crusader who sailed to the Holy Land nearly a millennium ago has been recovered from the Mediterranean seabed by an eagle-eyed amateur diver, the Israel Antiquities Authority said Monday.

Although encrusted with marine organisms, the meter-long blade, hilt, and handle were distinctive enough to be noticed after the undercurrents seemingly changed the sands that had hidden it.

The location, a natural cove near the port city of Haifa, suggested it had served as a refuge for seafarers, said Kobi Sharvit, director of the authority’s marine archeology unit.

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“These conditions have attracted merchant ships over the centuries, leaving behind rich archaeological finds,” he said.

The sword, believed to be around 900 years old, will be on display after it has been cleaned and restored.

Reference-torontosun.com

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