2 фев 1198 г. - Siege of Toron

Описание:

The siege of Toron in 1197-1198 witnessed the German Crusaders, led by Henry of Barbant, attempting to capture the city from the Ayyubid garrison. Initiated following successes in Sidon and Beirut, the Crusaders besieged Toron on November 28, 1197.

Background: King Amalric, capitalizing on Ayyubid focus on Jaffa, aided by the German Crusaders, aimed to seize Sidon and Beirut. Sidon fell, and Beirut's governor, Usama, opted to demolish the walls and withdraw. Bolstered by these victories, the Germans, under Archbishop Conrad, turned towards Toron.

Siege: Commencing the siege, the Crusaders undermined the castle walls, causing collapses. Initially, the Ayyubids proposed surrender, offering the castle and freeing prisoners for their lives. However, Conrad insisted on unconditional surrender, fearing a massacre would incite a Muslim jihad. Negotiations faltering, the Ayyubid garrison fiercely defended the castle, repelling Crusader attacks and destroying their tunnels. With fatigue setting in and news of Emperor Henry's demise, the Crusaders lifted the siege on February 2, 1198, just as an Ayyubid relief force approached.

Aftermath: The German Crusade of 1197, despite aiding Beirut's capture, failed to restore German prestige. Amalric brokered a peace treaty with Al-Adil, ceding Jaffa while securing Beirut. Sidon was partitioned between Christians and Muslims. The campaign lasted over five years, proving beneficial for Al-Adil.

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