Jerusalem in the Time of the Crusades

On 15 July 1099 the Crusaders conquered Jerusalem, beginning an innovative and prosperous Frankish rule over the city, which lasted over a hundred years and ended with the Khwarizmian conquest in 1244. This time of Crusader rule can be considered one of the most important in the history of Jerusalem. Through systematic renovation and repopulation, the Crusaders transformed a provincial town into the capital city of an eponymous kingdom: the Kingdom of Jerusalem. Adrian Boas's expansive view of Crusader Jerusalem is presented in three parts. The author first looks at the history of the city in the Crusader period, and its unique society, almost exclusively Christian and largely Western (Frankish). The complex lay and ecclesiastical administration systems for Jerusalem's joint roles as city and capital of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, are examined as well as the role of the military. Education, events, class and community are all analysed, providing the reader with a vivid picture of life in Jerusalem under Crusader rule. The second part of this book presents the archaeological evidence for Crusader Jerusalem. The Old City as it now stands is in many ways still medieval; visitors from the twelfth century would not have too much trouble in finding their way about today. The rich architectural evidence of Crusader rule which still survives is put into historical and religious context for the reader. From fortifications, palaces, churches and hospitals to markets, streets, archery grounds and stables, we are able to construct a fascinating image of Jerusalem in the twelfth century. Finally, in the third part, the author considers the development of Crusader art and the influence of Jerusalem and Medieval Christian art. The combined use of historical and archaeological evidence together with first-hand accounts written by visiting pilgrims results in a multi-faceted perspective of Crusader Jerusalem. This book will serve both as a scholarly account of this city's archaeology and a useful guide for the interested reader to a city at the centre of international and religious interest (and conflict) today.