3000 Year Old Octagonal Bronze Age Sword Found That Still Shines

3000 Yeah old octagonal bronze age swordPhoto byDr. Woidich/Twitter

Archaeologists unearthed a gleaming sword from a Bronze Age burial in Germany, revealing its remarkable preservation, according to recent reports. The 3,000-year-old weapon was discovered in the town of Nördlingen in Bavaria, inside the burial site of a man, woman, and child.

The translated statement described the sword's impressive condition, stating that it "almost still shines."

Crafted from bronze, the sword features an ornate octagonal hilt, now displaying a greenish tinge caused by the oxidation of copper—an element present in bronze when exposed to air and water.

Archaeologists successfully dated the sword to the end of the 14th century B.C. Notably, sword findings from this specific time and region are rare because of the widespread looting of middle Bronze Age graves over the centuries.

"The sword and the burial still have to be examined so that our archaeologists can classify this find more precisely. But it can already be said: the condition is exceptional! A find like this is very rare!"- Mathias Pfeil, Head, Bavarian State Office for Monument Protection

The creation of octagonal swords required exceptional skill from expert smiths. The handle, affixed to the blade using overlay casting, showcases two rivets.

Despite the absence of visible cut marks or signs of wear on the blade, experts suggest its purpose was likely ceremonial or symbolic. Its design and the center of gravity near the blade's front end indicate that it could have been effectively wielded as an active weapon.

According to the statement, researchers are aware of two manufacturing regions for octagonal swords in Germany—one in southern Germany, and the other spanning northern Germany and Denmark.

But, the specific origin of the newfound sword remains unknown. Experts believe it belonged to the Tumulus Culture that flourished in Central Europe during the Bronze Age.

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