history
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
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.