Walter The Penniless Starts the Journey
Walter the Penniless, of noble birth and valor, first embarked on the pilgrimage on March 8, 1096. He led many foot soldiers but few knights. After crossing Teutonic lands, he entered Hungary, a region difficult due to its swamps and rivers. King Coloman, a devout ruler, welcomed Walter and allowed his passage, granting a public market. Walter peacefully reached the Maros River, Hungary’s boundary with the Orient, and crossed into Bulgarian territory at Belgrade.
Unknowingly, some of his men stayed behind at Malevilla to buy supplies and were attacked by Hungarians. Stripped and beaten, they rejoined Walter’s group, who chose not to retaliate but hoped for divine justice. Continuing to Belgrade, Walter requested a market from the Bulgarian duke but was denied. His starving army resorted to seizing Bulgarian livestock, leading to a hostile confrontation. The Bulgarians attacked, and some of Walter’s men perished in a chapel set ablaze. The survivors fled.
Aware of his unruly followers, Walter wisely led his remaining army through Bulgaria to Stralicia. Here, he sought justice for the losses inflicted by Bulgarians. The city’s godly governor provided redress, a market, and guides to Constantinople. Upon arrival, Walter gained the emperor’s permission to camp near the city with market access, awaiting Peter, who had initiated the march.
Trouble Brews In Bulgaria
Shortly after the events described, Peter marched through Lotharingia, Franconia, Bavaria, and Austria. He led a vast host of about forty thousand, gathered from various peoples and tribes. Upon reaching the borders of Hungary, he sent a message to the king and easily obtained permission to enter, provided they passed through without causing any disturbance. Peter agreed to the terms and entered with his forces. The locals provided ample food at reasonable prices and under good conditions. The host advanced quietly to Semlin, where they discovered the atrocities their comrades, led by Walter, had suffered from the inhabitants. Seeing their friends’ spoils and weapons displayed as trophies on the city walls incited their anger. Encouraging each other, they seized their arms and stormed the city. Most inhabitants were either slain or drowned in the nearby river. Reports suggest about four thousand Hungarians perished, with Peter losing only a hundred men. After capturing the city, the pilgrims stayed for five days, benefiting from the abundant food available.
The duke of the Bulgarians, Nichita, had denied Walter and his army a market. Fearing retaliation after Peter’s army avenged the citizens of Semlin for their treatment of Walter, he anticipated similar punishment. Lacking confidence in Belgrade’s defenses, he abandoned the city along with its inhabitants, who retreated deep into the forest.
While Peter occupied the captured city, he heard the Hungarian king, angered by the massacre, was assembling forces to retaliate. Peter swiftly gathered boats to ferry his army across the river, taking abundant spoils, locks, and herds. Once across, they camped before the deserted Belgrade. Peter then led his forces on an eight-day journey through forests to Nish. The army, with carts and herds, found the city fortified and defended by brave men. They crossed a stone bridge and camped nearby, facing food shortages. A message was sent to the city’s ruler, requesting a fair market for essential goods. The ruler agreed, provided the army gave hostages to ensure no harm to those serving the market. Both parties agreed, hostages were given, and citizens brought out their goods.
Abundant food became available for everyone, and buying and selling were conducted with mutual respect. The night passed quietly with friendly exchanges, and by morning, the hostages were returned, and the army prepared to march. As most of the army had already departed, some troublemakers recalled a minor quarrel from the night before with a Bulgarian. They stopped, set fire to seven mills by the river, and burned them. These troublemakers, about a hundred Teutons, also burned houses outside the walls. Afterward, they rejoined the main army as if unaware of their wrongdoing.
The city’s ruler, who had been kind the previous night, felt betrayed and decided to punish them instead. Viewing all as plunderers, he summoned citizens to arm. Leading them, he encouraged an attack on the Christians, seeking revenge for sacrilege. The townspeople attacked the rear guard, pressing them with swords. They found the malefactors and, with justified anger, executed them. Unfortunately, many innocents suffered the same fate, blurring the line between guilty and innocent. They seized carts and wagons, taking old men, the sick, women, and children who couldn’t keep pace. After the massacre, satisfied with the bloodshed, they returned to the city, laden with spoils.
Peter marched with the advance guard, unaware of his comrades’ fate. A messenger arrived with news of their massacre. Shocked, Peter turned back, retracing their steps to find the bodies of their fallen brethren. Despite their grief, Peter and his companions aimed to uncover the cause of the disaster and restore peace. They sent envoys to the city’s leaders to investigate and mend relations. The envoys learned the citizens’ anger had reason but sought peace to reclaim lost comrades and belongings.
As negotiations neared success, a riot erupted due to some reckless individuals seeking revenge. Peter tried to prevent further violence but was ignored. He ordered the army to refrain from aiding the rioters. Despite efforts, a battle ensued with townspeople, resulting in heavy losses. The townspeople, seeing the division, attacked, killing hundreds and drowning others. The army retaliated, leading to a greater disaster. Overwhelmed, they fled, and Peter lost his collected treasures meant for charity.
The Bulgarians pursued with fury, they killed almost ten thousand Christians and carried as prisoners many women and children. Survivors hid in forests, and it was with difficulty that they were recalled on the third day by the warning sound of
trumpet and horn. They gathered round Peter and the others who had
escaped with him and had retired to a low hill rising slightly above
the plain.
On the fourth day, when scattered troops regrouped and those hiding for days emerged, about thirty thousand prepared to march again. Despite losing two thousand wagons, they felt abandoning the pilgrimage would be shameful, so they continued, facing great challenges. Just as they were about to leave, an imperial messenger arrived with orders for Peter and his leaders. Publicly, he said, “Noble men, rumors have reached the emperor accusing you of causing violence and unrest in his empire. If you seek his favor, do not stay in any city for more than three days. Move quickly to Constantinople with order and discipline. We will guide you and provide food at a fair price.” These words lifted the people’s spirits, who were suffering from hunger, and the emperor’s kindness gave them hope. They explained their innocence to the messenger and the patience they showed against Bulgarian injustices. Avoiding further excesses, they followed their guide and reached Constantinople swiftly, where they joined Walter’s troops, camping together in the assigned area.
Peter And Walter Arrive At Constantinople
At the emperor’s summons, Peter entered the city, standing in the royal presence. When questioned about his intentions and the motive behind such an undertaking, he spoke eloquently, showing high spirit. He explained that great Western princes, worthy of God, would soon follow him. His firmness and eloquence impressed the palace leaders, and the emperor commended him. After a warm reception, Peter received gifts and returned to his troops.
The army stayed for several days to recuperate with food and rest. They crossed the Hellespont to Bithynia in ships provided by the emperor. At Civitot, near enemy territory, they camped for two months, enjoying abundant supplies. However, this abundance led them to recklessness. Ignoring orders, they overran the countryside and drove off flocks. The emperor sent warnings, urging them to stay put and await greater leaders.
Peasant’s Crusade Fails
While Peter sought better trading conditions in the imperial city, his unruly troops acted foolishly. Seven thousand foot soldiers and three hundred knights set out for Nicaea, seizing flocks. Inspired, some Teutons gathered three thousand men and two hundred knights to attack a fortified town near Nicaea. They took it by storm and fortified it, intending to stay until leaders arrived.
Soliman, the land’s ruler, learned of the Christian leaders’ approach and gathered a vast army to aid his people. When he heard the Teutons seized a stronghold, he swiftly besieged it, killing all inside. News of the disaster reached the camp, causing grief and outrage. People demanded revenge, led by Godfrey Burel, ignoring wiser counsel. Twenty-five thousand infantry and five hundred knights marched toward Nicaea.
Barely three miles in, they encountered Qilij Arslan’s forces. A fierce battle ensued, but the Christians, overwhelmed, broke ranks and fled. The Turks pursued, slaughtering many. High-ranking men, including Walter the Penniless and others, were slain. Few escaped death or capture.
Qilij Arslan attacked the camp, killing the remaining defenders. Only young boys and girls were spared for servitude. Three thousand pilgrims sought refuge in an old fortress. Despite the Turks’ assault, they defended themselves. A messenger informed Peter of the massacre, leading him to plead with the emperor for help. Troops were dispatched, and the Turks retreated, taking captives and spoils.
The people’s refusal to heed wise counsel led to their downfall. Lacking discipline, they suffered destruction, reaping the consequences of their actions.
Betrayal In Hungry
Shortly after Peter crossed into Bithynia, a Teuton priest named Gottschalk followed, inspired by the pilgrimage. Gifted in persuasion, he rallied many Teutons from across the kingdom, leading about fifteen thousand pilgrims into Hungary, where they were welcomed. The king ordered fair trade, but Gottschalk’s followers indulged in excess, causing trouble. They plundered goods, disregarding hospitality laws, and committed serious offenses.
The king, angered by these acts, called for arms to avenge these wrongs. The crimes were egregious, compelling him to act to avoid being seen as weak and despised. Thus, the kingdom’s forces united against the Christians, determined to retaliate. At Belgrade, the king’s troops encountered Gottschalk’s disorganized group, aware of their guilt and the king’s wrath. Armed for defense, they prepared to resist. The Hungarians, realizing a direct confrontation would be costly, opted for strategy. They sent envoys to Gottschalk and his leaders, speaking peaceably.
“Grave complaint about your army has come to the king. It is said
that you have visited many serious injuries and untold troubles upon
the people subject to him and that you have most unfairly repaid the
kind treatment of your hosts. Yet the king in his wisdom is fully convinced that not all of you are guilty of these crimes. He regards it as
certain that there are among you discreet and God-fearing men, whom
the outrages of others displease and that those crimes which have justly
aroused the royal anger have been committed against the wishes and
remonstrances of these men. Lest the sins of individuals be charged
against all and the innocent be involved with the guilty, he has determined to restrain the measure of his wrath and, for the present, to
spare his brethren of the Christian faith. Accordingly, that his wrath
may be wholly appeased, we counsel you to surrender yourselves and
all the substance that you have here, including your arms, without any
condition, into the hands of the king. Otherwise, not one of you can
escape death, for, situated as you are in the center of his realm, you arunequal to us in military strength and you have no power of escaping.”
From the start, Gottschalk and his army leaders were displeased with the people’s stubbornness. Trusting the king’s kindness, they convinced the people to surrender themselves, along with their arms and possessions, to make amends. Although eager to fight, the people eventually agreed.
However, after surrendering, they faced death instead of mercy. The Hungarians attacked, slaughtering the defenseless people without distinction. The area was stained by blood and bodies, leaving few survivors. Those who escaped warned new pilgrims of the treachery they had faced, urging them to proceed wisely and cautiously.
Trouble Elsewhere
Around this time, countless groups of people from the West gathered on foot, driven by the same desire. Without leaders or guidance, they moved aimlessly, lacking foresight. Among them were some noblemen like Thomas de La Fere, Clarebold de Vendeuil, William Carpenter, and Count Hermann. However, the restless crowd ignored their control, disregarding wise counsel, and acted lawlessly. Instead of proceeding with discipline on their pilgrimage for Christ, they indulged in excesses. They brutally massacred Jewish people in towns they passed, especially in Cologne and Mainz. Count Emicho, a well-known nobleman, joined these bands with a large following.
He was not a moral censor, despite his high rank, nor did he reprove excesses; instead, he participated in his followers’ deeds, urging them to crime. They traveled through Franconia and Bavaria to Meseburg [Wieselburg], near Hungary’s border. Expecting easy entry, they halted when they found the path blocked. The fortress, defended by the Danube, the Leitha, and surrounding swamps, was difficult even for a larger force to breach. The army reportedly numbered around two hundred thousand foot soldiers and nearly three thousand knights. The Hungarian king had ordered the army be denied entry, recalling past wrongs against Gottschalk’s forces and fearing revenge. The massacre’s tale spread widely, causing the king’s fear. The pilgrims managed to send messengers to the king, seeking a truce and passage. Meanwhile, the soldiers camped in a pasture, awaiting the deputation’s outcome.
Light, yet they turned and led. It’s said that no real cause existed except that their many sins provoked the Lord’s wrath. They followed ungodliness, which strikes terror in its followers, and as the wise say, the wicked flee when none pursues.
More Trouble In Hungary
The Hungarians’ Resolve Increased. Seeing the Christian forces in a new light, they pursued as victors the same troops that had terrified them. The foes they barely withstood, even when protected by walls and swamps, they now followed, causing not just fear but death.
Count Emicho led most of his defeated troops back home. Other nobles went through Carinthia to Italy, crossing to Apulia’s borders and then to Greece with leaders planning to sail to Durazzo.
The entire West was stirred by this movement, with almost every nation sending bands. Some went on pilgrimage with leaders, others without. The shortest route through Hungary was blocked due to the pilgrims’ previous insolence and excesses, causing trouble for those who followed to win the Hungarian king’s favor.
After several days, the envoys sent to the king returned, reporting their mission had failed. The army leaders, realizing no favor was possible from the king, decided to devastate his lands and burn suburbs, acting as enemies. During this, seven hundred of the king’s men unexpectedly encountered the pilgrims. Unable to avoid them and trapped by the river, most were killed. A few escaped to the marshes for safety.
Encouraged by this, the pilgrims planned to build bridges and attack the fortress, intending to force entry into the kingdom. They mobilized troops, crossed the new bridges, and reached the fortifications. Protected by shields, they began undermining the walls. The walls were breached, and entry seemed imminent. The city’s inhabitants, in despair, barely hoped for survival when suddenly, a panic struck the Christians. They abandoned the attack, leaving most of their baggage, even though they appeared victorious.
Lord Godfrey Attempts Resolve With The Hungarians
In that same year, 1096 of the Incarnation of the Lord, on the 15 August, the illustrious Lord Godfrey, Duke of Lotharingia, gathered his fellow pilgrims, organized his belongings, and set out. This was after Peter the Hermit’s departure and the disaster to his army, the massacre of Gottschalk’s legions, and another calamity on Hungary’s borders affecting the following host.
Notable figures joined Godfrey’s camp: Lord Baldwin, his brother, Baldwin of Mons, Count of Hainault, Hugh, Count of St. Pol, and his son Enguerrand, Count Garnier de Grey, Reinard, Count of Toul, and Peter, Baldwin du Bourg, Henry d’Esch and his brother Godfrey, Dodo de Conti, Conon de Montague, and others. They marched peacefully and reached Tollenburg in Austria by September 20, where the river Leitha marked the boundary with Hungary.
Upon arrival, they were troubled by reports of Gottschalk’s disaster. They decided to send envoys to the Hungarian king to understand why their predecessors suffered and to negotiate peace and safe passage through Hungary. Finding another route would be difficult. Godfrey d’Esch, familiar with the king, was sent with other nobles to negotiate. Upon meeting the monarch, Godfrey respectfully began his mission.
"The noble and distinguished Godfrey, duke of Lotharingia, and the
other leaders, worshippers of God who are accompanying him in devoted obedience to the divine will, have sent us to your excellency. They desire to know through us why a Christian people, remnants of whom we have found all along the way, have met with such inhuman treatment from you, a nation reputed to be among the number of the faithful. They might with greater safety have turned aside to pass through an enemy's country. If the offenses of those people were such that they deserved to be visited with the extreme penalty, those who sent me are prepared to endure their loss with resignation.
For any punishment, if inflicted for a just reason, provokes less anger and ought to be suffered with patience. But if it is otherwise, and without cause you have attacked the innocent and given them over to death, our leaders cannot pass over the wrongs inflicted on the servants of God but are prepared to avenge the blood of their brethren. Hence, they await from us your response on these matters and will make their decision in accordance with the tenor of that answer."
With these words he ended his speech. The king, surrounded by his satellites, answered him as follows:
"It pleases us, beloved Godfrey, to whom long ago we extended the
favor which your merit deserves, that you have come to us, not only
that we may renew our friendship of olden times, but also that we may assert our innocence before so wise a judge. We are, indeed, as you say, of the number of the faithful, and would that by our deeds we might be able to exemplify the virtue of that name. But those who have preceded you, the followers of Peter the Hermit and the adherents of Gottschalk, as well as those who tried to take by assault one of our fortresses on the frontiers of the kingdom and to enter our realm by force, were, neither in act nor name, followers of Christ.
We received Peter and his army in the beginning with hospitality and ofered them the goods which we had, freely or at a just price. They, however, like a snake in the bosom or a mouse in a wardrobe, poorly requited their hosts. For when they ought to have poured forth thanks for the benefits bestowed upon them, they broke into one of our cities on the extreme frontiers of the kingdom, utterly destroyed the population, and, with the violence of robbers, departed, driving of locks and herds, the spoils of the place.
Notwithstanding this outrage, as if we had suffered no wrongs from former expeditions, we admitted the host of Gottschalk without dificulty or trouble. They, in return, did not hesitate to
plunder, to work violence, to burn, and even, on the most trivial pretexts, to massacre. Thus, by the enormity of their crimes they provoked the Lord to wrath." Unable to endure longer the wrongs inlicted upon our subjects, we turned our attention to providing some remedy for these dangerous conditions. In view of our former experiences, we have deemed it prudent to bar from our realm these companies of impious men, plainly hateful to God, lest for a third time we should suffer injuries at their hands.
Far better is it to do this than to undergo the insults and enor- mous losses which they visit upon us, or to ight them as enemies. Let it suice, then, that we have offered these details as our excuse to you, a wise and careful man. For as God lives, we have stated the actual truth just as it is."
With these words, he ordered the envoys to be treated with hospitality and great respect, until, after conferring with his people, he could send messengers to the leaders with a suitable answer. At length, he sent to the duke and the leaders some of his own household with the envoys. They were charged with this message.
"We have heard, and indeed have long known by report, that you
are rightly regarded as a great prince, illustrious and greatly esteemed among your people, and that wise men, even though afar off, admire the sincerity of your faith and the commendable constancy of your heart. We too, attracted by the good odor of your name and the fervor of your works, have purposed to cherish you, even in your absence, and to honor you with greater favor. We believe that the noble men of your train, who are likewise ired with zeal for the Christian faith, have undertaken a pious work. Since we do not desire that those virtues by which friends are usually gained should become torpid among us by disuse, we are ready to render due affection to all and to abound toward
them in works of brotherly affection."
"Accordingly, since the opportunity presents itself thus, we beg that you will consent to come to our castle Ciperon, that we may hold with you a long-desired conference and be able to bring about an agreement that will conform to your wishes."
After hearing the king’s deputies and consulting with his allies, the duke went to the designated place with 300 knights. Upon crossing the bridge, he met the king, who welcomed him with honor. They agreed to give hostages from the nobles to set aside ill-feeling and restore peace. The king allowed the duke to enter the kingdom with his forces. To ensure security, the king requested Baldwin, the duke’s brother, as a hostage. The duke agreed and led his troops in. The king ordered fair pricing for food and a market to follow the army. The duke declared no one should plunder or use force under penalty of death.
Guided by grace, they crossed Hungary peacefully. The king accompanied them with his troops, ready to manage any disturbance. Upon reaching Semlin, they halted at the river Save. With few boats available, rafts were built for crossing. A thousand armed knights crossed first to secure the bank against ambush. Once the host crossed, the king returned Baldwin and the hostages to the duke, as agreed. He then honored the duke and leaders with gifts and returned home.
The State Of Greece
With the leaders and people, the duke quickly followed the legions across the shore. Upon reaching Belgrade in Bulgaria, he set up camp. After organizing, they marched through Bulgaria’s forests to Nish and Stralicia. The Greeks’ weakness was evident in these once-rich provinces. When Latin rule ended, the Greeks, under Nicephorus, lost power. Local barbarians exploited this, seizing lands and treating inhabitants harshly. Bulgarians from the north took territories from the Danube to the Adriatic. The region, now called Bulgaria, reflects Greek disgrace. Previously, Epirus lay by the Adriatic, with Durazzo as its capital. The duke’s route passed through the two Dacias, once vibrant with cities like Nish and Stralicia. Other provinces like Arcadia, Thessaly, Macedonia, and Thrace faced similar fates. Even after Emperor Basil subdued the Bulgarians, remote lands remained unoccupied. This persists today, with dense woods and brambles deterring entry. The Greeks rely on natural defenses over military strength. Epirus Primus is left desolate, using its wilderness as a barrier. This path, beginning at Durazzo, stretches four days to the Balkan mountains.
Godfrey Encounters Trouble Byzantium
The duke and his legions marched through Dacia Mediterrania, also known as Moesia, and reached Philippopolis. Here, he learned that Hugh the Great, brother of Philip, king of the Franks, was imprisoned by the emperor. The duke quickly sent messengers, urging the emperor to release Hugh and his companions, as they were unjustly held.
Hugh had crossed into Italy and Apulia, then waited in Durazzo for others to join him, unaware of any threat in the Greek kingdom. However, he was imprisoned by the district governor and held by the emperor. The emperor planned to release him only if other leaders arrived, or keep him imprisoned otherwise. Alexius Comnenus, now ruling the Greek empire, had seized power treacherously.
The duke’s envoys demanded Hugh’s release, but were refused. Consequently, the army plundered the region for eight days. The emperor, alarmed, promised their release, and the duke stopped the plundering, advancing to Constantinople. Hugh and others joined the duke’s camp, grateful for their release. Soon, the emperor demanded the duke’s presence. The duke delayed, causing the emperor to deny market access, leading to further plundering.
Friction Between Godfrey and the Emperor
The emperor, fearing greater harm, restored the market. During the festive season, plundering ceased. Afterward, the emperor invited them to the palaces by the Bosphorus, offering shelter from harsh weather. His true intent was to limit their movement and control them. The duke, distrusting the emperor, sent representatives instead of going himself. The emperor, realizing the duke’s resolve, resorted to violence, sending archers to attack the camp, causing many casualties.
When the duke learned of this, he quickly summoned the chiefs for a meeting. They advised him to send his brother with troops to secure the bridge the army had crossed, to prevent being trapped and losing many men. Baldwin, with five hundred knights, swiftly captured the bridge, as threats loomed from those landing and the city arming against them.
The Christians saw their enemies preparing to attack, so they set fire to the palaces they occupied along the Bosphorus, whether private or imperial. Alerted by trumpets, troops grabbed their weapons and followed the duke to the bridge. Experienced soldiers knew losing the bridge would be disastrous, so they concentrated the cavalry there. Baldwin, already ahead, had taken the bridge, forcing the enemy to retreat.
The duke and his forces crossed easily, setting up outside the city. In the evening, a battle near the church of the Holy Martyrs Cosmo and Damien saw heavy losses. The Greeks, unable to endure the fight, retreated. Our army then camped in a strategic field. Nightfall ended the battle, preventing further conflict.
The emperor’s plan to confine the army became clear. At dawn, a decree called for arms. Some troops, under leaders, were sent to gather provisions, forbidden by the emperor, by force or purchase. Others stayed to guard the camp, wary of imperial tricks.
A large force went out to forage, ravaging fields for six days, returning with vast supplies. Meanwhile, a messenger from Bohemond delivered a letter warning of Greek deceit. The duke, considering the message, consulted with leaders and replied, acknowledging Greek hostility but reluctant to turn arms against a Christian people.
The duke expressed hope for Bohemond’s support, stressing the army’s eagerness for his arrival and that of other loyal princes.
The Emperor Fearful Of Revolt, Improves Relations
Extreme anxiety gripped the emperor, his household, and court. The country faced pillage, and the people’s cries were unbearable. Knowing messengers from Bohemond had arrived and the prince was coming, he feared the arriving princes would unite against him. He urgently sent messengers to persuade the duke to visit. He aimed for reconciliation before their arrival and sent a pressing invitation with his son, John Porphyrogenitus, as a hostage.
This pleased the leaders. Conon de Montague and Baldwin du Bourg were sent to receive the emperor’s son, entrusted to Baldwin, the duke’s brother. The duke left his brother with the army and went to the city with other leaders, meeting the emperor who welcomed him with honor. The emperor, surrounded by distinguished men, greeted the duke and his nobles according to their rank, offering peace and kindness to win their favor. He addressed the duke, praising his power, devotion, and steadfast spirit, acknowledging his widespread reputation.
The emperor expressed a desire for affection and favor, adopting the duke as his son before the sacred palace’s great men, placing the empire’s integrity in his hands. Following court ceremonial custom, the duke was clothed in imperial robes and adopted as a son, restoring peace and goodwill between them.
After the ceremony, the emperor opened his treasure to the duke and his companions, offering splendid gifts of gold, gems, silks, and precious vases, beyond imagination in elegance and value. The emperor’s generosity aimed to showcase his immense wealth and majesty. His liberality continued weekly from Epiphany to Ascension, sending as many gold coins as four men could carry, plus ten measures of copper denarii. The duke kept nothing for himself, distributing everything to nobles and the army based on need.
They then left the emperor and returned to the camp. John, the emperor’s son, held as a hostage, was sent back with an honorable escort. The emperor issued an edict ensuring fair prices and weights for the duke’s army supplies, with death penalties for violations. The duke forbade any harm to the emperor’s men, maintaining harmonious trade.
More Prince’s Arrive, Emperor Resumes Trickery
In mid-March, learning that other leaders were arriving, the duke, with the emperor’s suggestion and his people’s consent, prepared boats and crossed the Hellespont, setting camp at Chalcedon in Bithynia, the first province in Asia he reached. Chalcedon, near Constantinople, was where the fourth synod met to combat heresies. The city’s proximity allowed easy travel to Constantinople.
However, the emperor’s persuasion for the duke to cross the sea sooner than planned was not sincere. Using his usual trickery, he aimed to prevent the duke’s forces from uniting with others. He similarly forced later arrivals to cross individually, ensuring two armies were never together before the city.
Between the emperor and the duke in Constantinople, Lord Bohemond, son of Robert Guiscard, prince of Taranto, crossed the Adriatic before winter, reaching Durazzo with his forces. He marched through Bulgaria with many noblemen from Italy and beyond, including Tancred, Richard of the Principate, Rainulf, Robert of Anzi, and others. They reached Castoria, celebrating the Lord’s birthday.
In Castoria, lacking markets for travelers, they seized food by force, causing local hostility. Moving to rich Pelagonia, they discovered a fortified town of heretics, captured and burned it, killing inhabitants and taking spoils.
Hearing of Bohemond’s advance, the emperor secretly ordered his chiefs to shadow the Christian forces to the Vardar River, harassing them when possible. Fearing Bohemond, he cunningly sent nobles with deceptive messages, pretending peace while concealing true intentions.
“Our majesty, protected by God, knows you are a great and illustrious prince, son of a magnificent and tireless ruler. We have always held you in high regard, as your merits deserve, even though we have not met. We understand that you have devoted yourself to God’s service, joining other princes on this pilgrimage. We aim to honor you further and keep you in our favor. Therefore, dear friend, instruct your followers to spare our subjects and stop violence and fires. Come to us quickly, so you may enjoy the honors and favors we intend for you. We have instructed the bearers of this message to provide necessary supplies for your army at fair prices.”
Though the emperor’s words seemed kind, they were laced with deceit. Bohemond, wise and aware of the emperor’s malice, concealed his feelings and thanked him for his concern. Guided by others, they reached the Vardar River. Some troops had crossed while others were still crossing. The emperor’s followers, seeing their chance, attacked those still crossing. Tancred quickly responded, leading two thousand knights across the river. They attacked the enemy, scattering them and capturing prisoners, who confessed they were following the emperor’s orders. This revealed the emperor’s deceit, but Bohemond, needing passage, chose not to provoke him. After crossing Macedonia and Illyricum, the army neared the city. Five days before Easter, another envoy from the emperor urged Bohemond to visit him with a small escort. Suspicious, Bohemond hesitated, but Duke Godfrey arrived, encouraging him to meet the emperor. After discussion, Bohemond reluctantly agreed. At the palace, the emperor welcomed him warmly. Following friendly talks, Bohemond pledged loyalty to the emperor, becoming his vassal.
Afterwards, lavish gifts from the royal wardrobe—gold, robes, vases, and precious stones—were offered, establishing peace. Tancred, Bohemond’s nephew, avoided the emperor and moved his army to Bithynia near Chalcedon, camping by the duke’s army. When the emperor discovered Tancred’s actions, he was angry but hid it. He generously gifted visiting princes and sent them honorably to their camps beyond the Bosphorus. The armies united, waiting for others to arrive, intending to continue their pilgrimage together. The city and surrounding area provided ample food, ensuring everyone had plenty.
For several days, his army enjoyed food and rest near the city, while the count held frequent meetings with the emperor on essential matters. He then departed, sailing with his cohorts to join fellow pilgrims. They welcomed him warmly, and the two armies combined forces.
For some days, the leaders shared stories of their journey, reminiscing about past hardships. Eventually, they discussed urgent matters, deciding when and how to achieve their enterprise. They were concerned about the delay of their comrades, blaming them for the passing time, when a messenger announced the count of Toulouse and the bishop of Puy were near and would soon enter the city.
Robert, The Count Of Flanders Arrives
As winter approached, the renowned Robert, count of Flanders, set sail from Bari, a coastal city in Apulia. With his army, he crossed the sea to Durazzo. In this fertile land, amidst woods and pastures, he avoided the harsh winter. As spring neared, he energetically continued his journey to join other leaders who had crossed the sea. Before reaching Constantinople, imperial messengers commanded him, like the others, to leave his troops and meet the emperor with a few companions.
Aware of how those before him had dealt with the emperor, he arrived in Constantinople with a small group. He was warmly welcomed and honored by the emperor. Following others’ example, he took the oath of fealty, receiving even greater honors and gifts. His companions were also generously honored according to their ranks. These two leaders and their armies remained close comrades from the start. Their group included notable men of character and rank, such as William, bishop of Orange, and Rainbald, count of Orange; Gaston de Beziers; Gerard de Roussillon; William de Montpellier; William, count of Forez; Raymond Pilet; Gaston de Bearn; William Amanjeu, and others whose names are recorded in the Book of Life. They embraced poverty, leaving behind their homeland to follow Christ.
Following these revered leaders, they traveled into Italy, through Lombardy, and into Istria near Aquileia, eventually reaching Dalmatia. Dalmatia lies between Hungary and the Adriatic, with four major cities: Zara, Salona (Spalato), Antivari, and Ragusa. It is home to fierce people prone to plunder, with a landscape of mountains, woods, rivers, and pastures, leaving little room for farming. The people rely on their livestock, except a few on the coast who speak Latin, unlike the others who speak Slavonic and have different customs.
Entering this region, they faced challenges due to the rough terrain and winter. They endured famine from food shortages. The natives abandoned their cities, fleeing to hills and woods with their families and possessions, fearing the newcomers. They followed the army from a distance, attacking the sick and elderly who lagged behind. The count, mindful of his responsibility, sent leaders ahead while he stayed with the main knights, always the last to retire.
The air was thick with mist, making shadows almost tangible. Those behind could barely see ahead, and the lead group saw only a short distance ahead. The land, full of rivers and marshes, was often shrouded in stifling mist. Slavic Dalmatians, familiar with the terrain, followed the army through crags and forests, launching attacks on unarmed pilgrims. The count and leaders retaliated, killing many with lance and sword, yet more escaped into the nearby woods. Some attackers were caught, and the count ordered their hands and feet cut off to instill fear.
For three weeks, the pilgrims endured this terrain, finally reaching Scutari, where they met the king of the Slavs. The count, a kind and merciful man, offered gifts to forge friendship and secure a trade market, but the effort failed, and the people remained savage. After forty days of hardship, they reached Durazzo. The emperor, wary of the count’s wisdom and large force, sent an honorable embassy to greet him. They delivered a letter expressing admiration for the count’s reputation and inviting him for discussions, urging him to pass peacefully and promising honors and trade opportunities.
The spirits of the count and his army were lifted by this letter. They resumed their march, traversing woods and mountains. After crossing Epirus, they reached Pelagonia, rich in resources, and made camp. The bishop of Puy, a revered man, set his tent slightly apart for convenience. Bulgars captured him, but his life was spared by chance when a robber, seeking gold, protected him. A quarrel among the thieves alerted the army, who rescued the bishop and his people.
They continued their journey, crossing Thessalonica and Macedonia, until reaching Rodosto, a maritime city near Constantinople. Here, the emperor’s deputies and messengers from preceding leaders advised the count to let his army move slowly while he hastened to the emperor with a small escort. By the time his dealings were done, his army would arrive, allowing him to follow swiftly without delaying the eager host. He had already sent messengers, who returned encouraging him to proceed similarly.
Robert Refuses To Pledge Allegiance, Dispute Ensues
The count’s hesitation was finally overcome by the urgent plea of the imperial legates and leaders who urged him to hasten to the court. Leaving his army with the bishops and nobles, he entered Constantinople with a small retinue, escorted by imperial deputies, and presented himself to the emperor. He was received with honor by the monarch and his court but refused to take an oath of fealty as other leaders had.
While these events unfolded, the emperor, upset by the count’s refusal, secretly ordered his legion chiefs to attack the count’s forces. They were to harass them, even to massacre. The emperor felt confident because other leaders had sworn loyalty, and their armies had crossed the sea, preventing easy return. Boats were withheld to prevent retreat. His strategy aimed to separate armies to avoid their concentration in the city, which he feared. His generosity was a tactic driven by fear.
As directed, the emperor’s officers attacked the count’s army at night, taking them by surprise and causing many casualties. Eventually, the count’s troops regained composure, fought back, and inflicted losses on the emperor’s forces. Despite their resistance, the continuous hardships caused them to doubt their mission, with many regretting the pilgrimage and considering return. Bishops and clergy encouraged them to remain steadfast.
When the count learned of this, he was devastated, accusing the emperor of betrayal. He sent nobles to confront the emperor, accusing him of treachery. He informed the leaders, whose pleas had brought him to Constantinople, of the disaster, demanding retribution for the emperor’s deceit.
If the count’s power for revenge matched his desire, neither threats, fear, nor intervention would have swayed him, as he was known for his firm spirit and memory for grievances. However, the emperor realized his excess and regretted his actions. He called the remaining leaders—Lord Duke, Bohemond, and the Count of Flanders—to mediate with the count. Although angry, they advised the count privately to hide his grievances to avoid hindering their mission. Persuaded by their arguments, the count, a discreet man at heart, set aside his bitterness and agreed to their advice.
The Crusaders Unite, Proceed to Nicaea
The leaders approached the emperor, expressing their shared indignation. Seeing their unity, the emperor explained himself to the count and the court, claiming the reported incident occurred without his knowledge. He offered satisfaction to the count to prove his innocence. The Greek trickery and the emperor’s treachery were increasingly evident. It became clear that Alexius harbored deep hatred for the Latins. Yet, driven by their pilgrimage’s purpose, they chose to conceal their grievances to not impede their sacred mission. The count reconciled with the emperor, swore fealty like the others, and was restored to favor, receiving lavish gifts beyond measure. The other leaders also received additional gifts.
They then took leave, urging the count not to delay, and crossed the Hellespont to join their legions in Bithynia. Meanwhile, the count’s army reached Constantinople and crossed the sea to join the preceding forces. The count stayed in the city longer for personal matters but remained focused on public welfare. He tried to persuade the emperor to lead the army, as other chiefs had done. Meanwhile, Godfrey, Bohemond, Robert of Flanders, and the bishop of Puy organized and awaited companions at Nicaea. They met Peter the Hermit, who recounted his army’s misfortunes, attributed to their own behavior. The leaders sympathized and gave gifts. The united army then marched to Nicaea, encircling the city and laying siege on May 15. The count of Toulouse, after finishing his affairs, joined them rapidly. Lord Robert of Normandy and other nobles sent messengers to the emperor, announcing their imminent arrival. These nobles, including Stephen of Chartres, Eustace, and others, had wintered in Apulia and Calabria. With spring’s return, they continued, reaching Constantinople, where the emperor warmly received them. After discussions, they pledged fealty and received lavish gifts before joining the army at Nicaea. Taticius, a Greek confidant of the emperor, joined as a guide but was treacherous, reporting back to the emperor. The army united for the first time, forming one cohesive force. A census showed six hundred thousand people on foot and one hundred thousand knights, all focused on taking Nicaea, dedicating their efforts to the Lord.