Chance Haifa Coast Find Uncovers 12th-Century Crusader Sword
A three-foot, one-handed Crusader sword from the 12th century was found by chance by University of Haifa student Shlomi Katsin off Dor Beach near Haifa. After reporting the find, the Israel Antiquities Authority allowed its removal for preservation. CT scans at Haifa’s Medica Elisha Hospital indicated the blade was designed for one-handed use and likely belonged to a European Crusader knight, though much of the iron has corroded away. The rare discovery, still encrusted with shells and sediment, offers new insights into medieval maritime life and Crusader warfare in the region.
