A Viking sword estimated to date back to the 9th or 10th century was found in the ancient city of Patara in Turkey's southern Antalya province.
The sword was discovered during excavation work being carried in Patara, which was at one point the capital of the ancient Lycia region, Daily Sabah reported.
Classical archeology professor at Akdeniz University Feyzullah Şahin said that the newly discovered artifact is definitely a Viking sword.
He said the sword is believed to belong to a soldier who fought in naval warfare during the first half of the ninth and 10th centuries and provides a hint into the life of the Vikings who served as mercenaries in the Byzantine army.
Research suggests Vikings put swords in graves as a gift to the deceased person.
