Fishermen have pulled a spearhead dubbed the 'Poseidon Spear' from a small lake next to an ancient town, sparking a wave of speculation over its mysterious origins.

The discovery was made in Lake Iznik, located in the modern-day Turkish town of Iznik, which was historically known as Nicaea, last month (April).

The item, which the fishermen claim is from Roman times based on what the experts told them, is currently in a museum where archaeologists are now analysing the trident to determine its historical significance.

But some have already started linking it to the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon.

The trident was recovered from the depths of Lake Iznik, which was known in ancient times as Askania.

Back then, the region was part of the Roman province of Bithynia, an area of major strategic value that became fully integrated into the Roman Empire in the 1st century BC.

Just a short distance from the lake, the city of Nicaea played a key role in Roman administration, culture, and religion.

It was here in AD 325 that Emperor Constantine summoned the First Council of Nicaea, one of the earliest defining moments of early Christianity.

Roman engineers left their mark across the region with military fortifications, extensive roads, and aqueducts, helping secure Roman control and influence in the eastern provinces.

The lake today is a popular destination for anglers and lies just outside the boundaries of the ancient city of Nicaea, once an important centre in both Roman and Byzantine periods.

The spear appears to have a trident-like design, contributing to the association with Poseidon, though experts have not confirmed any religious or mythological link.

During the Roman era, similar multi-pronged weapons were commonly used for both ceremonial and practical purposes.

Tridents were employed in gladiatorial combat, particularly by a class of fighters known as "retiarii," who wielded nets and tridents to battle opponents.

However, such tools were also used in fishing.