JERUSALEM, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- A rare 12th-century knight's sword has been discovered on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea off Israel's western coast, the University of Haifa said in a statement on Sunday.
To study it without causing damage, researchers used a hospital CT scan, allowing them to see beneath the hardened layers of debris without harming the find, which was found covered in thick marine sediment after centuries underwater, said the statement.
The scan revealed that the sword was designed to be held in one hand and likely belonged to a Crusader warrior. Although much of the original iron blade has corroded, images showed a visible fracture along the weapon.
The researchers believed that the sword was made in Europe and brought to the region by Crusaders during the Middle Ages.
Swords were powerful symbols of knighthood and vital weapons in battle, and because they were valuable and deeply personal possessions, they were carefully maintained and preserved, the researchers said.
They said this rare find offers new insight into the lives of Frankish knights and maritime activity in the region. ■
