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12th Century Crusader Sword Discovered "By Chance" by Student Off Coast of Israel, University Says

Updated on: February 24, 2026 / 9:36 AM EST / CBS News

12th Century Crusader Sword Discovered "By Chance" by Student Off Coast of Israel, University Says

TL;DR

  • A student named Shlomi Katsin discovered a centuries-old sword while swimming off the coast of Haifa, Israel.
  • The sword is believed to date back to the Crusades period (1095-1291).
  • The three-foot-long blade was recovered and is being preserved and studied at the University of Haifa.
  • Analysis suggests the one-handed sword likely belonged to a European Crusader warrior.
  • The discovery is considered rare and provides a unique opportunity to learn about the lives of European knights in Israel.
  • This find contributes to understanding maritime anchorages and warrior life during the Crusades.