Part of a growing assemblage of ancient weapons found in unassuming places, the swords were part of standard-issue weaponry for Roman soldiers stationed in the Judea region during the Roman period.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

©"composite bow" by stevenarcherysupplier is licensed under BY-ND 2.0. - Original / License Bows are one of the most ancient weapons around, having a similar service record to knives and spears.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

Archaeologists uncover Roman weapons and Messapian city walls near Ugento, southern Italy, tied to the Hannibalic War era in 209 B.C.

The enduring fascination with the "Roman Empire" overlooks its genesis: ancient Rome's formidable military. Renowned for discipline and innovation, the Roman Army dominated the ancient world ...