October 1197 · Beirut
German Crusaders capture Beirut
When the forces of the German Crusade of 1197 advanced on Beirut in October 1197, the city's Ayyubid garrison abandoned it. The crusaders took Beirut without a fight around 24 October; the city returned to Latin rule and later became an important lordship of the Ibelin family.
RESEARCH DOSSIER
Historical analysis of the event
Background
Beirut had surrendered to Saladin in 1187 after Hattin and cut the coastal road between Acre and Tripoli. Its harbour was also used as a base by Muslim corsairs. After taking Jaffa in 1197, al-Adil expected the crusaders to turn north.
Course of events
The German army marched north from Acre and passed the ruins of Sidon. Rather than halt the crusader advance, the forces sent by al-Adil tried to demolish the city walls, but ran out of time. As the crusaders approached, the garrison abandoned the city and the crusaders entered Beirut unopposed.
Many Christian prisoners were freed in the city and large quantities of supplies were captured. King Aimery of Cyprus also supported the operation.
Outcome and significance
With Beirut taken, the Kingdom of Jerusalem's coastal hold extended northward and the land link with the County of Tripoli was restored. The city was later given to John of Ibelin, who rebuilt its walls and palace, and in the thirteenth century Beirut became the centre of one of the most influential lordships of the Latin East. It remained in Latin hands until the Mamluks took it in 1291.
Sources and debates
Arnold of Lübeck and the continuations of the account attributed to Ernoul report the capture of Beirut; Ibn al-Athir also describes the garrison's withdrawal. The exact day the city was taken is given as different days in late October in the sources.
Dates, places and figures in this record compare the principal narrative sources with modern scholarship. Where the sources disagree this is stated in the text; for a thesis or publication, consult the relevant edition and page reference.