In the heart of Valencia, a rare and captivating discovery has been made – an ancient sword reminiscent of the legendary ‘Excalibur’. Unearthed in 1994, this 18-inch iron sword stood upright in a grave, earning it the moniker ‘Excalibur’ after the mythical blade. Its ornate bronze-plated hilt provided a secure grip, while the blade’s subtle curvature towards the tip hinted at a Visigothic origin.
The sword’s discovery within an Islamic-era abode initially posed a dating challenge. However, meticulous research conducted by archaeologist Manuel Pérez-Juez of the University of Granada revealed that the weapon’s metalwork and the surrounding sediments pointed to the 10th century, a period when Valencia, then known as Balansiya, was under Muslim rule. Further analysis suggested that its size and lack of a hand guard indicated use by a mounted warrior.
This remarkable find represents the first sword from the Islamic period to be unearthed in Valencia. It serves as a tangible reminder of the vibrant architecture, art, and literature that flourished during Muslim rule in Spain. While the last Muslim state in Spain fell in 1492, the discovery of this ancient sword underscores the enduring legacy and cultural exchange that shaped the region’s history.
