dec 7, 1217 - Siege of Mount Tabor

Description:

The siege of Mount Tabor during the Fifth Crusade saw the Crusader armies, including Austrian and Hungarian forces, attempting to capture the Muslim fortress. Initiated in response to Pope Innocent III's call for a crusade, the campaign aimed to liberate Christian prisoners and seize Mount Tabor.

Background: Following a council in 1215, the Pope declared the new crusade, prompting Hungarian King Andrew II and Austrian Duke Leopold VI to assemble their armies. The Crusaders, joined by Antiochian and Cypriot forces, launched an offensive from Acre, exploring the area around Mount Tabor and sacking Baisan.

Siege: Led by King John of Brienne, the Crusaders arrived at Mount Tabor on November 30. The fortress, deemed unconquerable, was defended by a garrison of 2,000 under Badr al-Din Muhammad Al-Hakkari. Guided by a local convert boy, the Crusaders launched an attack on December 3, climbing the mountain during heavy fog. Despite reaching the walls, they were repelled by a sortie from the garrison.

Aftermath: Following failed attempts to breach the fortress, disheartened Crusaders abandoned the siege on December 7 and withdrew to Acre. Months later, the Muslims relinquished the fortress, destroying it before leaving.

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