4 July 2025

A remarkable discovery has been made in the Vistula River near Warsaw – a medieval sword, retrieved by a fisherman.

The find has been confirmed as authentic and will now undergo professional conservation. More details will be available after further analysis, according to Michał Krasucki, Warsaw’s Historic Preservation Officer.

“As you can see, the Vistula still hides many treasures. This medieval sword, almost entirely preserved, was pulled from the river by a fisherman. It features a distinctive spherical pommel and an intriguing cross-shaped mark on the grip. The finder promptly brought it to our office, fulfilling the legal obligation to report such discoveries,” Krasucki explained.

In an interview with the Polish Press Agency (PAP), Krasucki shared that the fisherman spotted the sword protruding from the water near the Tarchomin district on Tuesday.

“It’s great that he knew exactly what to do. On Wednesday, he brought it to our office, and we confirmed it to be a medieval sword. We will know more after additional expert analysis,” he said.

Krasucki added that the sword may have been unearthed by the shifting riverbed of the Vistula, whose currents often alter its shape. The origin of the weapon remains unknown for now.

“The Vistula still holds many secrets,” he noted, pointing to recent archaeological finds near Tamka Street, including a flintlock pistol.

He also reminded the public that all items found in the ground or water in Poland are the property of the State Treasury. Archaeological artifacts must be handed over to the appropriate heritage authorities.

The sword has been delivered to the Metal Conservation Laboratory of the State Archaeological Museum, where specialists will ensure its proper preservation.

Ph: Stołeczny Konserwator Zabytków

Source:

Nauka w Polsce

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