Diver Discovers 900-Year-Old Crusader Sword in Pristine Condition Off Israel’s Coast

by Peter February 7, 2025

written by Peter February 7, 2025

Diver Discovers 900-Year-Old Crusader Sword Off Israel’s Coast

Archaeological Discovery

A diver off the coast of northern Israel has stumbled upon a remarkable archaeological discovery: a 900-year-old Crusader sword. Shlomi Katzin, a resident of Atlit, spotted the sword and other ancient artifacts on the seabed off the Carmel coast.

Sword in Perfect Condition

The four-foot-long sword was covered in shells and other marine organisms but was otherwise in “perfect condition,” according to Nir Distelfeld, an inspector for the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA). “It is a beautiful and rare find and evidently belonged to a Crusader knight,” Distelfeld said.

Underwater Excavation

Archaeologists had been monitoring the area, a natural cove that has offered shelter to ships for millennia, before Katzin’s find. Earlier discoveries have shown that the site was active as long as 4,000 years ago.

Unpredictable ocean conditions often bring artifacts to the surface, and the rise in recreational diving in the area has led to the reemergence of more objects in recent years, said Koby Sharvit, director of the IAA’s marine archaeology unit.

Crusader Weapon

The sword is still encrusted in marine organisms, making it difficult to identify specific details. However, experts believe it was likely a Crusader’s weapon based on its size, shape, and location.

“The basic shape of the weapon, a straight sword, didn’t evolve much from the time of the Vikings to the 14th century,” said archaeologist Rafi Lewis.

The fact that the sword was found more than 600 feet from the coast also suggests it belonged to a Crusader. Muslim forces built fortifications along the coast but did not typically travel by sea.

Historical Context

The discovery of the sword sheds light on the era of the Crusades, when European armies were sent to the Middle East to seize holy sites from Muslim rulers. After the Muslim sultan Saladin retook Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187, England’s Richard I led an army against him, winning a “great but ultimately pyrrhic victory,” according to historian Richard Spencer.

Further Study

The sword is now in the hands of the IAA’s National Treasures Department. Scientists plan to clean and study the weapon before putting it on display to the public.

Additional Discoveries

In addition to the sword, Katzin also spotted pottery fragments and stone and metal anchors. These artifacts provide further evidence of the site’s long and rich history.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.