A recent expedition in Poland by a group of amateur treasure seekers has yielded a remarkable discovery. The group, which had previously found intriguing items such as thirteenth-century Carolingian dynasty coins, stumbled upon a significant find at the end of January – a large medieval sword. The sword, designed to be wielded with two hands, was found alongside two axes in the Nowomiejskie district.

The discovery was made by members of GRYF—Biskupieckie Stowarzyszenie Detektorystyczne, a group of history enthusiasts and treasure hunters. The club, which organizes various activities, including treasure hunts and community service projects, has a Facebook page that showcases their adventures. One of their notable projects included a cleanup of a forgotten Jewish cemetery in the woods near Lubawa.

The January search was conducted in collaboration with the Ostroda Museum, which plans to feature the discovered weapons in its permanent exhibit. According to the museum, the preservation process is underway, with a series of x-rays being conducted to ensure the proper security of the artifacts. The exhibit is expected to be presented later this year.

The medieval sword, measuring just under 3.2 feet (1 meter) in length, was found to be heavily rusted and weathered, yet remarkably well-preserved, with its blade, pommel, and handle intact. The axe blades, although not as complete, were also in good condition. Details about the origins of the weapons are limited, with the museum only confirming that they are of medieval origin.

Historical records suggest that Poland during the Middle Ages was inhabited by various Slavic tribes, with an invasion by Teutonic Knights in the fifteenth century. According to experts cited by Archaeology News, the sword’s design is similar to “hand-and-a-half” weapons popular in Western Europe during the Late Middle Ages, designed to penetrate armor. The discovery of the sword near the Osa River has led some to speculate that the weapons may have spent centuries underwater, contributing to their preserved state.

In conclusion, this remarkable find highlights the importance of exploration and discovery. As the treasure hunters have demonstrated, putting down our devices and engaging with the world around us can lead to fascinating experiences and a deeper appreciation for history.