1000-year-old rare ‘Excalibur’ sword from Islamic period found in Valencia

In a remarkable archaeological find, researchers have uncovered a rare, 1,000-year-old sword from the Spanish city of Valencia, drawing comparisons to the legendary Excalibur of King Arthur, LiveScience reported yesterday.

The 18-inch iron blade was discovered in an Islamic-era house in an upright position inside a grave, mirroring the iconic legend, the source added.

According to medieval folklore, King Arthur pulled an upright sword out of a stone and then ascended the throne of Britain.

The hilt of the Valencia sword is decorated with bronze plates and contains notches that made the sword easier to handle.