Diver finds sword, believed to be 900-years-old from the crusades

CAESARIA, Israel (NBC) – A sword believed to have belonged to a crusader who sailed to the Holy Land almost a millennium ago has been recovered from the Mediterranean seabed thanks to a sharp-eyed amateur diver.

Though encrusted with marine organisms, the three-feet-long blade, hilt and handle were distinctive to notice after undercurrents apparently shifted sands that had concealed it.

Israel authorities said that the location, a natural cove near the port city of Haifa, suggested it had served as a shelter for seafarers.

The sword, believed to be some 900 years old will be put on display after it is cleaned and restored, the authority said.