Nicaea
Nicaea was a city in Bithynia, once under Nicomedia’s control. Emperor Constantine later freed it, honoring the first holy synod held there. During Pope Sylvester and Patriarch Alexander’s time, 318 church leaders gathered in Nicaea to oppose Arius’s heresy. They rejected Arius’s false teachings and affirmed true faith through scripture, unifying the church. Later, under Emperor Constantine, son of Irene, the seventh synod met in Nicaea to challenge the Iconoclasts, who opposed holy images. At this time, Pope Adrian and Patriarch Tharatius condemned these heretics for their betrayal.
Rule Of Qilij Arlsan
Nicaea had a large, warlike population and was impressively defended by thick walls and high towers. As our men approached, they marveled at the fortifications. The region’s ruler, a powerful Turkish satrap named Qilij Arslan, was known for his cunning. Upon hearing of our troops’ approach, he became concerned and traveled east to seek help from local leaders against the Christian forces. Through persuasion, urgent pleas, and financial incentives, he gathered a large number of Turks from Persia and nearby areas, hoping to protect Nicaea and the district from imminent danger.
This ruler, with the army he had gathered with great effort, was staying in the nearby mountains, just ten miles from our forces. He waited for a chance to attack us without risking his own safety, hoping to relieve the city from worry.
Crusaders Arrive
Upon reaching the city, our forces launched a fierce attack, despite being somewhat disorganized as the camp wasn’t yet properly set up. Those who arrived first chose positions and designated spots for the others still coming. They focused on stopping anyone from entering or leaving the city. However, the lake surrounding the city was a major obstacle because people could easily use boats to travel freely. Our army had no ships, so we couldn’t restrict their movement. Still, we managed to block access by land by carefully guarding all roads and paths.
Qilij Arslan Sends A Warning
Qilij Arslan, aware of the siege, sent two of his men by boat to reassure the citizens and encourage them to keep resisting. Through them, he sent messages of hope.
“The coming of this wretched and barbarous people who have had
the presumption to place our city under siege should not cause you.
great fear, for I have taken up a position in the vicinity with a great
force of strong and noble men and am awaiting still larger numbers
which are to follow. Very soon, when all these troops have been united
into one body, we shall make a sudden attack upon their camp. When
we attack from without, therefore, be prepared on your part to assist
us. Be ready to unbar the gates and come forth as with one mind to
attack them. But you must not fear their great numbers. Coming as
they do from the far-distant lands of the West, because of the long
march and the hardships they have endured, without horses to bear
the weight of battle, they cannot be equal in strength or power of exertion to our fresh forces who have just come. Bear in mind also how
easily we triumphed over their mighty host, and in one day consigned
to death more than ifty thousand of their number. Be comforted,
therefore, and have no fear, for tomorrow before the seventh hour of
the day you shall receive abundant aid and be delivered from the
enemy.”
The messengers sailed along the shore, searching for a landing spot. While scouting, our people suddenly attacked, capturing one of the two. The other died in the chaos. The captive was taken to the leaders, where under threats, he confessed everything. He revealed that Qilij Arslan had sent them to inform the citizens of his impending attack with a large force. The chiefs, learning of Qilij Arslan’s approach, detained the prisoner and sent couriers to urge the count of Toulouse and the bishop of Puy to join them quickly. Receiving the urgent message, the leaders were anxious and hurried overnight. Before sunrise, they reached the camp with loud cries, banners, and gleaming armor. By the third hour, as predicted, Qilij Arslan descended from the mountains with around fifty thousand cavalry. Upon sighting the enemy, our people armed themselves, alerted the cohorts with trumpets and horns, and prepared for battle, adhering to military discipline to face the approaching threat.
Qilij Arslan Sends a Preliminary Attack
Qilij Arslan sent ahead a squadron of ten thousand horsemen as an advance guard, moving swiftly toward the south gate. He expected it to be unprotected, unaware that Raymond had reinforced it. Instead, he encountered more troops there than anywhere else. Attacking fiercely, he found the count’s men prepared. Though caught off guard, they withstood the charge, scattering the enemy’s first line. As Qilij Arslan arrived with reinforcements, the enemy regrouped and reengaged. Observing the larger enemy forces, the duke, Bohemond, and the count of Flanders realized the count’s men were exhausted. They rushed to help, attacking with lance and sword. Initially strong, the infidels, after an hour of resistance with four thousand casualties, retreated.
Thus by the help of God our forces won this first victory.
Crusaders Surround Nicaea
They continued the siege by encircling the walls with their camp. From that day, neither Qilij Arslan nor other infidel princes dared to attack again. The chiefs performed nobly, but Tancred, Walter of Garland, Guy of Possessa, and Roger de Barneville gained great renown for their prowess. To terrify the enemy further, orders were given to hurl the heads of slain Turks into the city. A thousand heads and prisoners were sent to the emperor, winning his favor. Alexius generously rewarded the chiefs with money and silks, and provided provisions and a well-supplied market. To achieve their goal, they blockaded the city on all sides, positioning leaders strategically to force the citizens to surrender. They divided the wall into equal parts, assigning each sector to individual chiefs.
The duke and his brothers, with their forces, were on the east side. Bohemond, Tancred, and other leaders held the north side. Next were the count of Flanders and the prince of Normandy with their troops. Raymond, count of Toulouse, and the bishop of Puy took the south. Beyond them, Stephen, count of Chartres and Blois, with Hugh the Great and others, set up camp. The city was fully surrounded, and commanders ordered rapid construction of machines for undermining the walls, called scrofhae, along with mangons and fetraries. Materials were available from nearby woods.
The Siege Begins
Artisans worked diligently, competing to finish so the city could be attacked. After seven weeks of effort and repeated assaults, misfortune struck during a skirmish. Two noble fighters, Baldwin Calderon and Baldwin of Ghent, died heroically—one by a rock, the other by an arrow. Following leaders’ advice, a second attack was launched. William, count of Forez, and Galo de Lille, eager in battle, were wounded by arrows and perished. Guy of Possessa also fell ill and died. The people, shocked by these losses, honored the warriors with proper burials and fitting ceremonies for men of high rank.
At another time, all the leaders involved in the siege worked tirelessly to use their machines on the wall, aiming to weaken it and gain entry. Count Hartman and Henry d’Esch, noble men from the Teutons, along with their followers, set up a well-built engine against the fortifications. Made of oak beams and strong walls, it sheltered twenty brave knights tasked with undermining the wall, keeping them safe from the largest rocks thrown by the enemy. However, when the machine was positioned at the ramparts, the defenders attacked from above. The structure was destroyed by heavy stones, causing the joints to fail and crushing everyone inside.
The sympathy of the entire people went out to these nobles, for the
work of many days performed at so great a cost was utterly ruined and
rendered of no account. They grieved also for the fate of those brave
men who had perished so pitiably. Yet the hope of victory comforted
them, especially as they doubted not that those who had risked their
lives for Christ in such a work had won a better life. For with justice
they felt that men who had perished in a combat of this kind had died
as martyrs. Hence they too, scorning death and regarding the present
life as of no value, were rendered still more brave by this hope and
continued to expose themselves with full confidence to all kinds of
danger.
The leaders united to assault the city along the walls. Each leader’s zeal in attacking their section boosted their reputation. Despite high costs, the persistent battles left the townspeople no rest.
The Problem Of The Lake
The adjacent lake greatly hindered the Christians’ efforts, providing the besieged with easy access to supplies and cattle. Powerless to stop this, the leaders met to solve the issue. They decided to send people with cavalry to transport boats overland to the lake. Without this, their efforts would be futile, wasting their work and resources.
When those entrusted with this mission reached the sea, guided mercifully by the Lord, they found medium-sized ships. These were easily obtained from the emperor and brought onto dry land. The boats were placed on three or four wagons, depending on their length. During one night, with ropes on the shoulders and necks of men and horses, they dragged these ships overland to the lake, covering seven miles or more. Some ships were larger, holding fifty or a hundred fighters. Once the fleet was on the lake, the Christian army rejoiced. Leaders hurried to the shore, bringing skilled oarsmen and strong, brave men. Everyone was filled with hope of soon taking the city. The townspeople noticed more boats on the lake and were puzzled, unsure if they were part of their fleet or the enemy’s. Eventually, they realized our people had dragged them overland to the lake. They marveled at the Christians’ strength and ingenuity in accomplishing such a challenging task.
The city’s lake outlet was blocked with the Christian leet. A herald announced that each legion should arm and take their assigned positions. A renewed assault was planned against the townspeople. Leaders rallied their men, leading them fully armed into battle. A fierce encounter ensued. Engines were used boldly; some focused on sapping the walls, while others hurled stones to weaken fortifications. The south side, under the count of Toulouse, had a prominent tower rumored to house Qilij Arslan’s wife. The count targeted this tower but struggled to damage it due to its solid construction. Undeterred, he increased the pressure and number of machines. Gradually, larger stones caused cracks, and the tower began to crumble. With this, the army charged the walls, trying to breach them. The citizens, aware of the tower’s vulnerability, filled it with stones and cement to maintain its defense even if the walls gave way.
Attempts To Breach The Walls
Our men, shielded by a solid testudo against the wall, worked tirelessly to breach the fortifications. After much effort, they finally created an opening wide enough for two men. Meanwhile, the citizens prepared to fiercely resist, countering strategy with strategy and strength with strength, showing a spirit equal to that of the Christians. Using bows, ballistae, and various weapons, they united to repel the attackers and prevent damage.
One defender, notable for his size and strength, caused significant harm with his bow. Emboldened by his success, he taunted our soldiers as lazy and cowardly. Godfrey, unable to tolerate this, took a heavy bow and aimed accurately, killing the man instantly. This act frightened his bold coworkers, reducing their attacks and insults. Others, unaware of this event, continued to defend the city, inflicting wounds and death from the walls and towers. They hurled pitch, oil, lard, and lit brands, destroying many of our machines except those well-guarded.
On the south side, those working on the tower continued their efforts. Seeing the wall fully restored each night, they began to lose motivation. Facing failure, they almost gave up when a brave knight from the count of Normandy’s army took action. Hoping to inspire others, he donned armor and crossed the moat with courage. Shielded, he approached the wall to dismantle the newly built structure and reopen the previous breach. However, the townspeople fiercely attacked from above, and without support, his attempt failed. He was killed by stone missiles and died by the wall, visible to his comrades who couldn’t help. The infidels mocked his lifeless body, then returned it stripped of armor. Mourning, his people praised his bravery and buried him with honor, believing his death was noble and his soul would join the elect. They were convinced those who fell in battle earned eternal life and would share in the glory promised to the saints.
The chiefs of our legions met to discuss their lack of progress and wasted efforts. They consulted on what actions to take. During their discussions, a Lombard man approached, claiming expertise in engineering. He proposed, with adequate materials and funds, to breach the tower without loss of life. With resources provided, he crafted a machine allowing safe attachment to the walls, enabling them to undermine the fortifications securely. Equipped with armor and tools, the team moved the engine across the moat, skillfully applying it to the walls. Despite the enemy’s attempts to damage it with rocks and combustibles, the machine’s design prevented harm. The enemy’s confidence waned as the men within continued their work. They replaced the stone foundation with wooden supports to prevent the wall from collapsing onto the engine, ensuring its safety against the structure’s weight.
When the tower was ready to collapse, fire was set to the supports. Enough flammable materials were used to keep the fire going. The workers then left the machine and hurried back to their team. Around midnight, with the wooden supports burned to ashes, the tower crashed like an earthquake, sending shockwaves even to those far away and filling them with fear. Awakened by the noise, the legions rushed to arms, ready to storm the city.
Qilij Arslan’s Wife and Son Attempts to Flee
The wife of Qilij Arslan had endured the siege’s hardships with great difficulty. Terrified by the tower’s fall, she ordered ships and, with her maids and household, secretly left the city seeking safety. However, Christians had guards on the lake to prevent escapes, and these vigilant watchers captured her. She and her two sons were brought to the commanders and kept under strict guard. The city was alarmed by the breach and her capture, leading them to distrust their strength and quickly seek a truce to arrange surrender.
Negotiations Of Surrender
Taticius, a shrewd man, foresaw the citizens’ desire to surrender. He had already advised the city’s leaders to honor the emperor in such an event, noting the pilgrims’ army was moving on. The siege was incidental, and the emperor would remain near. His clemency was reliable, promising prosperity. Thus, it was wiser to prefer the emperor over an unknown barbarous people. The unavoidable capitulation would favor him, helping reclaim the city unjustly taken by the Turk’s violence. Persuaded by these arguments, the citizens agreed to surrender the city, their persons, and possessions to the emperor, ensuring their safety.
Christian leaders found the proposal acceptable as their main goal differed, and they didn’t plan to stay long in Nicaea. They expected the city’s spoils to compensate the army for its hardships and losses. Before discussing surrender or meeting the citizens’ demands, all captives from Peter the Hermit’s army, taken by Qilij Arslan at Civitot and during the siege, were returned to the army. With the agreement of leaders and people, envoys were sent to the emperor with this message:
“The Christian army and its leaders have labored faithfully
in the siege of Nicaea for love of the name of Christ. By their earnest
and persistent efforts, with the help of God, they have compelled that
city to surrender. We earnestly beseech your serene highness, therefore, not to delay to send to these parts some of your principal men
with a force suficient to hold this city, which has been surrendered for
the honor of your name. They must also arrange for the transference
of a great number of captives. For as soon as the city has been delivered
to your highness, we wish to proceed immediately on the pilgrimage
which, by the authority of God, we have undertaken.”
Negotiations Successful
The proposal was acceptable to the Christian leaders, as their main goal was quite different, and they didn’t plan to stay long in Nicaea. They hoped the city’s spoils would be given to the army to compensate for their hardships and losses. Before discussing surrender or meeting the citizens’ demands, all prisoners from Peter the Hermit’s army, captured by Qilij Arslan at Civitot and during the siege, had to be returned. With the leaders’ agreement and the people’s consent, envoys were sent to the emperor with this message:
“The Christian army and its leaders have labored faithfully
in the siege of Nicaea for love of the name of Christ. By their earnest
and persistent efforts, with the help of God, they have compelled that
city to surrender. We earnestly beseech your serene highness, therefore, not to delay to send to these parts some of your principal men
with a force suficient to hold this city, which has been surrendered for
the honor of your name. They must also arrange for the transference
of a great number of captives. For as soon as the city has been delivered
to your highness, we wish to proceed immediately on the pilgrimage
which, by the authority of God, we have undertaken.”
The emperor felt immense joy and gladness upon receiving the message. He immediately dispatched trusted members of his retinue to Nicaea to secure the city. These envoys were instructed to claim all captives’ assets—gold, silver, and furnishings—as the emperor’s property. To win favor with the commanders, the emperor sent lavish gifts and expressed gratitude through messages for their honorable service and the empire’s growth. However, the people and lower-ranking men were outraged. They had also worked hard during the siege and hoped to recoup their losses with the prisoners’ spoils and city’s wealth. Realizing their efforts would not be rewarded, they felt their labor and expenses had been wasted. Leaders believed the emperor had violated the treaty, which stated that any cities captured on their march to Syria should return to the emperor, but all spoils were for the armies as compensation.
The Christians could have easily driven the emperor’s emissaries from the city and sent them back empty-handed. Such an action would have been justified, as keeping faith with someone acting against a treaty is wrong. However, they feared God and focused on more important matters. To achieve their pilgrimage’s goal swiftly, they hid their true feelings for the common good, using persuasive words to calm the indignant people.
The Greeks sent to take over entered the city, took the citizens’ arms, and completed the surrender. They then went to the camp, pleading for the citizens’ safety, claiming they had restored the city to the emperor and accepted his rule.
After the city surrendered, a protective force was assigned. Qilij Arslan’s wife, her two sons, and many prisoners were taken to Constantinople. The emperor treated them generously, restoring their freedom within days. He hoped this kindness would win the Turks’ favor and encourage them against us. If our armies besieged another city, he believed the people might surrender without fear.
The city of Nicaea was taken on the twentieth day of June, in the
year 1097 of the Incarnation of the Lord.
Crusaders Leave Nicaea
As soon as the siege ended, the leaders ordered the march to resume. On June 29, they set out. For two days, the legions moved as one. On the second night, they camped by a bridge for water access. Before dawn, they prepared to march and crossed the bridge. At this point, whether by chance or intention, the leaders and their legions parted ways. Bohemond, Count of Normandy, Stephen, Count of Blois, Tancred, and Hugh, Count of St. Pol, veered left and marched alone. They reached a valley called Gorgon, where, around the ninth hour, they camped by a stream with good pasturage. Guarding the camp, they spent a quiet night despite some anxiety. The other leaders went right and, after the day’s march, camped about two miles away, also finding good pasturage and water.
The Turks Attacks (Battle Of Dorylaeum)
Qilij Arslan, deeply aggrieved by his loss to the Christians—his city, wife, and sons—plotted revenge. He gathered a large force, shadowing the enemy who had turned left. His scouts provided updates on the army’s movements, and he awaited the right moment to strike. Learning that the divided army’s weaker section was nearby, he seized the opportunity and descended with his vast forces.
As dawn broke, sentinels spotted the enemy, having been stationed to detect any threats early. Trumpets blared warnings of the infidels’ swift approach. Alerted by the sound, the entire host armed themselves, readied horses, and prepared for close combat. On the morning of July 1, they formed battle lines, with centurions and captains leading cohorts, and chiefs positioned at the infantry wings.
To ensure the troops could advance unencumbered, the infirm and elderly were placed with the baggage in a nearby reed thicket. This spot, further protected by chariots and vehicles, seemed a safe haven. Messengers were sent to inform other army divisions of their urgent situation and to request swift assistance.
Everything in Bohemond’s camp was organized according to military strategy. Around the second hour, Qilij Arslan appeared with countless Turks. Our army was amazed that in a multitude exceeding two hundred thousand, only cavalry was visible. Our forces, however, consisted of both cavalry and infantry.
As the Turks advanced, the camp’s uproar grew so loud that words were indistinguishable. The clang of armor, neighing horses, trumpets, drums, and soldiers’ shouts filled the air with terror for the unaccustomed legions. When the Turkish lines attacked, arrows rained like hail. Few in the Christian ranks escaped wounds. As one volley ended, another followed, leaving no one unscathed. This unfamiliar fighting style was especially hard to endure. They saw their horses fall and were powerless, struck by unseen forces. Still, they charged with sword and lance, trying to repel the enemy. The Turks, unable to withstand the charge, opened ranks to avoid the clash, deceiving the Christians, who had to retreat. Once they fell back, the Turks closed ranks and unleashed more arrows. Protected by armor, our men resisted, but horses and unarmed fell indiscriminately. Nearly two thousand, both knights and foot soldiers, perished. Among them was William, a promising youth, son of the Good Marquis and Tancred’s brother, struck by an arrow while fighting bravely.
Robert of Paris, renowned for his war prowess, met a similar fate. Even Tancred, indifferent to danger and rank, narrowly escaped death. During the fight, he was dealing heavy blows to the enemy when Bohemond forcibly rescued him. The infidels’ ranks strengthened, while the Christians’ weakened. The Turks engaged in close combat, leaving bows unused. Our cohorts eventually broke, fled, and retreated to their baggage, clustering around chariots and wagons in the dense reeds for protection.
The army of the faithful faced disaster, and Bohemond’s strength began to falter. Meanwhile, Duke Godfrey, Count Raymond, Hugh the Great, Baldwin, Eustace, and other leaders, devoted to God, swiftly advanced to aid their brethren. Leaving the unmounted crowd with the baggage, they moved to rescue with forty thousand well-armed knights. Their arrival reinvigorated Bohemond’s forces, ready to give in moments before. Renewed, they returned to battle, eager to avenge past wrongs and redeem their defeat, fiercely attacking the enemy. The bishop of Puy and his colleagues urged commanders to avenge their brethren’s blood, assured of divine victory, and not let the foes of Christ celebrate. The Christians, energized, launched a furious assault, breaking the infidel lines and causing a dreadful slaughter. They pursued the fleeing enemy for miles beyond their camp, located in a rich valley, leaving an awful massacre in their wake.
The Turks were scattered in disorder, suffering heavy losses. The Christians returned to the enemy’s camp, rescuing their captured people. They found large amounts of gold and silver, along with asses, pack horses, and camels—animals unfamiliar to them. They seized tents and pavilions of various colors and shapes. Laden with spoils and driving animals and slaves, the victors returned to their camp.
The enemy reportedly lost nearly three thousand prominent men that day. Four thousand of our lower-ranking people, both men and women, also fell, but only two of higher rank died, according to elders. The battle on July 1 saw varied fortunes with unequal forces. It lasted from the second to the eighth hour. Qilij Arslan’s horsemen numbered over one hundred and fifty thousand, while the Christian knights were barely fifty thousand.
Crusaders Prevail
After this victory attributed to divine favor, the army regrouped and took a brief rest to tend to the wounded. For three days, amidst green pastures, they revitalized themselves and cared for their horses. The abundance of provisions and the enemy’s abandoned supplies greatly enhanced their enjoyment.
Our leaders excelled during this crisis, but some lesser-known individuals also gained lasting glory, including Baldwin du Bourg, Thomas de La Fere, Renaud de Beauvais, Galo de Chaumont, Gaston de Bearn, and Gerard de Cherisi.
It was decided by common agreement that the armies would unite and march together as one. They would share both adversity and success.
Travel Through The Desert
For three days, they stayed in that place, resting as needed for themselves and their horses. Then, at the trumpet’s call, they prepared to continue their pilgrimage. The route took them across Bithynia into Pisidia. Hoping to shorten their march, they entered an arid region without water. Overcome by thirst and heat typical of July, many began to falter. Reports say over five hundred died from thirst and heat. Stories tell of premature births due to the conditions, a fact unrecorded elsewhere. Some mothers, in despair, abandoned their babies, while others, driven by compassion, held their children close, disregarding modesty in the face of death.
Men found that their physical strength offered little help. Fainting from heat and exertion, gasping for air, they sought moisture to ease their thirst but found none. Even animals, including beasts carrying baggage, were parched and disobedient. Delicate birds, hawks, and falcons died despite care. Hunting dogs, loyal to their masters, abandoned them and succumbed to thirst. Horses, reliable in battle, faltered under the heat and lack of water.
Finally, in mercy, God provided relief. A long-sought river was discovered, and the pilgrims rushed to it. However, drinking too freely led to greater danger. Many who survived thirst lacked self-control and died from drinking too much. Beasts of burden also perished. With God’s help, they were eventually rescued and reached a fertile land near Antioch the Lesser, with streams, woods, and pastures, where they camped in green fields.
At this place, some chiefs and their forces intentionally withdrew from the main army. Baldwin, the duke’s brother, was the first. Accompanying him were Peter, count of Stenay; his brother, Reinard, count of Toul; Baldwin du Bourg; and Gilbert de Montclair, with seven hundred knights and infantry. Tancred was the next to leave with Richard of the Principate, Robert of Anzi, and other noblemen, bringing five hundred knights and foot soldiers.
Their shared goal was to scout routes, explore the area, and test their fortune, reporting back to the leaders on their findings for safer and more prudent movements. Initially, they stayed on the royal highway, passing through Iconium and Heraclea, then turned right, moving quickly toward the coast.
Duke Godfrey Attacked By Bear
In the meanwhile, the duke and the other leaders who had remained. The duke, who had gone into the wood for exercise and recreation, encountered by chance a huge bear of ferocious appearance. It was fiercely pursuing a poor pilgrim laden with wood. The latter was striving in vain to find a refuge from his pursuer. He was calling loudly
for help in his imminent danger, when the duke happened to appear.
Ever full of sympathy for his brethren, he quickly rushed to the assistance of the sufferer. As soon as the beast caught sight of the duke, who was in the act of raising his sword to strike, it at once spurned its former victim and hurled itself with teeth and claws upon the braver foe. His horse was seriously wounded; nevertheless, the duke, now necessarily on foot, attacked the bear with his sword. The beast, roaring horribly, met him with open jaws. It scorned alike the perseverance and the sword of the duke as of no account and tried to grapple with him. As the animal charged, the duke drove it back with his sword and endeavored with all his might to give it a deadly thrust. The bear avoided the weapon, however, and, clasping the duke in its arms, tried
to throw him to the ground that, while he lay helpless beneath it, it might more easily tear him to pieces with teeth and claws. But the illustrious soldier clung to his sword, and, as he was a man of great strength, he seized the monster with his left hand and with the right plunged his sword up to the hilt in the side of the struggling beast.
This caused its death. The duke had won a bloody victory, however, for he was seriously wounded in the leg. Prostrated by his wound, he lay on the ground, so weakened by loss of blood that he could not rise.
The cries of the poor man who had escaped death by the duke’s help, at last notified the legions of the accident. All the people ran to the spot where the brave hero, the defender of the armies, was said to be At the camp, drawn by the beautiful surroundings and nearby woods, they entered the forest to hunt. Amid their hard work, they sought recreation and a brief escape from constant worries. In the forest, different interests led them on various paths, resulting in diverse adventures. One lay wounded and was carried back on a litter amid tearful laments. Surgeons were called, hoping their efforts and remedies would restore his health.
Illness Spreads
At this time, Raymond, Count of Toulouse, a renowned man, was gravely ill and carried in a litter. So sick was he that when laid on the ground, anticipating his death, he barely breathed. William, Bishop of Orange, a revered man, performed rites for the dying. Without the guidance of such leaders, the legions nearly despaired of continuing their pilgrimage. Deeply concerned, they, as one, prayed to the Lord for their recovery. During divine services, prayers were offered for the two leaders. Graciously, God restored them to health, answering the prayers of His people.
After crossing Pisidia, they entered Lycaonia and reached Iconium, the capital. This barren area left the pilgrims struggling for food. The Turks, warned of their approach, had no confidence in their towns’ defenses. They evacuated, taking families and possessions to the mountains, hoping the Christians, weakened by hunger, would pass quickly. The hope proved true as the pilgrims hastened through the desolate land. After Heraclea, they reached Marash, where they camped for three days.
At Marash, Baldwin’s wife, Godfrey’s sister-in-law, entrusted to her brothers’ care, passed away after a long illness. She was Godehilde, an English noblewoman of commendable life and character. She was buried with honor at that place.
Siege Of Tarsus
Meanwhile, Tancred, a praiseworthy man, and his followers laid siege to Tarsus, the main city of the province. Taking advantage of short routes, he was first to reach Cilicia, a province in the Orient. According to the ancients, Antiochena is referred to as the diocese of the Orient. Cilicia is bordered by Coelesyria to the east, Isauria to the west, the Taurus range to the north, and the Cyprian or Aegean sea to the south. It includes two capital cities: Tarsus, birthplace of the teacher of the Gentiles, and Anavarza, each with dependent cities. Thus, there are two Cilicias, Prima and Secunda. The founder of Tarsus was said to be Tharsis, the second son of Japham, son of Japhet, the third son of Noah, as the city bears his name. Solinus, however, in the forty-third chapter of De memorabilibus, claims Perseus, son of Danae, founded Tarsus, divided by the river Cydnus. Some say the river rushes from the Taurus range, others from the Hydaspes river. Both Tharsis and later Perseus may have contributed to the city’s founding and expansion. Tancred besieged the city for days, eventually persuading the citizens to agree to let his standard fly over a tower, signifying surrender. They demanded protection until Bohemond and the main army arrived, without being forced from their homes or estates. Tancred accepted, agreeing to a peaceful surrender to Bohemond upon his arrival.
Tancred Controls Tarsus
The city’s population, like the entire region, was Christian, consisting of Armenians and Greeks, except for a few Turks skilled in arms and holding military authority. These Turks controlled the fortifications and oppressed the people with harsh rule. The faithful couldn’t bear arms, focusing instead on trade and agriculture. Meanwhile, Baldwin, the duke’s brother, had taken remote routes and suffered from lack of food. After many wanderings, he reached a mountain top, where he could see Cilicia and its cities spread out below, all the way to the sea.
Baldwin, noticing a camp near Tarsus, grew concerned, thinking it was the enemy. Eager to learn more, he courageously led his men into the plain. Tancred, alerted by his lookouts, also prepared for potential enemy tricks. He rallied his comrades, believing these were hostile forces aiding the city. With unwavering spirit, he led his troops forward, trusting in God. As the armies neared, they realized they were not enemies. Approaching confidently, they embraced and exchanged friendly words, joining forces to continue the siege. Tancred welcomed them warmly, and that night, they held a grand feast with food from local flocks and herds.
In the morning, Baldwin and his comrades noticed Tancred’s banner on the city’s highest tower. Jealousy overtook them, overshadowing their previous vows of brotherhood and love. They were upset that Tancred had raised his standard while more powerful leaders with larger troops were present. Tancred, a modest man, tried to calm them, explaining that his actions were not meant as an insult. He had made an agreement with the citizens through his valor before the chiefs arrived and before there was hope of their coming. Despite this, Baldwin, urged by his companions, ignored the situation’s merits. Driven by his emotions, he angered Tancred with insolent words, escalating tensions to the brink of violence. Baldwin then threatened the citizens, demanding they replace Tancred’s standard with his own, or he would abandon the city to destruction, disregarding Tancred’s promise of immunity.
Baldwin Takes Tarsus
The citizens saw Baldwin as more powerful and well-equipped than Tancred. So, under the same treaty and terms as with Tancred, they replaced his flag with Baldwin’s. Tancred, feeling wronged, managed his anger wisely. To prevent conflict among the faithful, he moved to a nearby city, Adana. However, he wasn’t allowed to enter because Guelf of the Burgundian nation had taken over, separating from the main army and attracting many followers. Guelf had ousted the Turks and seized the city.
When Tancred learned Adana was now under friendly control, he sent messengers to Guelf, requesting entry for his people to buy supplies. The envoys were welcomed, and Tancred’s needs, as well as his horses’, were met generously, some at no cost and others at a set price. Guelf had found the city rich with gold, silver, livestock, grain, wine, and oil, abundant in all necessities.
At dawn, Tancred departed the city with his company, moving quickly to Mamistra. This notable city, famous for its walls, towers, and large population, was situated in a fertile area. Near Mamistra, Tancred set up camp and launched relentless attacks. Within days, with divine aid, he captured the city and defeated the infidels. The city contained vast riches and supplies, which Tancred distributed among his followers based on merit, enriching his entire company. The plentiful food compensated the pilgrims for their past hardships. Meanwhile, they rested and allowed their animals to graze freely.
After Tancred left, Baldwin repeatedly warned the people of Tarsus, mixing threats with his demands to open the gates for his forces. He found it shameful to waste time waiting for the army. Fearing an attack, since they saw Tancred couldn’t oppose him, the citizens, lacking confidence in their strength, reluctantly opened the gates, allowing Baldwin and his forces entry. They assigned him two towers while his people stayed with the city’s faithful. The Turks, still in control of other towers and the majority of fortifications, remained wary of the Christians. Lacking hope for aid, they sought to discreetly leave with their families and belongings.
That night, three hundred men from Bohemond’s expedition heading to join Tancred reached Tarsus. Baldwin ordered they be denied entry. Exhausted from their journey and lacking supplies, they pleaded for shelter and a market. The pilgrims inside sympathized and prayed for their admission, but the request was denied as they were part of Bohemond’s group aiding Tancred. Despite not being able to leave, the Christians inside showed brotherly love by lowering baskets of bread and wine over the wall. This provided enough food for the men to endure the night. Forced to stay outside, they settled by the city gates to rest.
Occupied Turks Massacre Crusaders
That night, the Christians in and outside the city were asleep, enjoying rest. In the deceptive quiet, the Turks and other infidels in Tarsus silently opened the gates and left. They took their families, servants, and belongings, unable to feel at home with their guests and fearful of staying. Free to leave, as they controlled a few gates, they sent ahead their belongings. Then, to leave a bloody victory for their enemies, they killed nearly everyone sleeping outside the gates.
The next day, as daylight broke, the Christians who had slept in the city awoke to find it deserted. Amazed by the enemy’s silent departure, they examined the walls and entrances to uncover their exit route. While inspecting every corner, they discovered the massacre the fleeing Turks had inflicted on the servants of Christ. Overcome with sorrow, they began to lament. The second-ranked men separated from the others and armed themselves against Baldwin and the leaders. They blamed them for refusing hospitality to fellow pilgrims, a right owed to the needy. Enraged, they moved against their chiefs. If the leaders hadn’t retreated to the towers, the massacre might have been avenged equally on them. Baldwin realized the just cause of the uproar and sought to appease the crowd. He called for silence, and the armed crowd quieted. Baldwin swore his innocence, claiming he barred entry only to honor a promise until the duke arrived. With persuasive words from nobles, the people calmed, and reconciliation was achieved.
Crusaders Leave Tarsus
After several peaceful days, a ship appeared three miles from Tarsus. Knights and foot soldiers rushed to the sea, learning from the newcomers that they were Christians from Flanders, Holland, and Frisia, who had turned from piracy to journey to Jerusalem in repentance. Recognizing them as fellow believers, they invited them into the port, exchanging greetings and peace. Once the ship was secured, the men were welcomed to Tarsus.
Their chief was Guinemer from Boulogne in Count Eustace’s land, Lord Godfrey’s father. Recognizing Baldwin as his lord’s son, Guinemer left to accompany him to Jerusalem. Wealthy from a long-practiced, unsavory trade, he had many servants, most of whom joined him in following Baldwin. A group of five hundred men from both commanders’ followers was left to protect the city, while the rest prepared to seek their fortune.
Tancred & Baldwins Civil War
After leaving Tarsus, the army followed the royal highway to Mamistra. Tancred had recently seized the city and held it firmly. Knowing his forces wouldn’t be welcomed, Baldwin set up camp in nearby gardens. Tancred, hearing of Baldwin’s arrival, was enraged. Memories of past injustices fueled his anger, and he prepared for retaliation. He sent bowmen to harm horses in the pastures and, with 500 knights, attacked Baldwin’s camp, catching them off guard. A fierce battle erupted with many casualties and prisoners on both sides. Tancred’s forces, outnumbered and outmatched, eventually retreated to the city.
Between Baldwin’s camp and the town flowed a river with a narrow bridge, hindering Tancred’s forces as they fled. Many knights and foot soldiers were killed, though some escaped. Greater losses might have occurred, fueled by hatred, but night halted the fighting.
Captured among Tancred’s followers were Richard of the Principate and Robert of Anzi, noblemen who advised Tancred on revenge. From Baldwin’s side, Gilbert de Montclair was also captured. The absence of these leaders caused unrest, as it was believed they had fallen in battle.
At dawn, hatred began to fade, and anger eased. Through divine mercy, both sides remembered their duties and regained composure. Messengers negotiated peace, captives were returned, and both armies exchanged the kiss of peace, restoring harmony.
Tancred Conquers Turkey
From Mamistra, at the demand of his comrades, Baldwin returned with all his forces to the main army. This, as has been stated, had now arrived at Marash. He had learned of the serious accident which had befallen the duke before Antioch in Pisidia and, full of anxiety about Godfrey’s safety, wished to ascertain more fully his real condition.
Meanwhile, Tancred reinforced his own forces by associating with them the rest of the people who had come with the leet.
With this greatly increased army, he overran all Cilicia. He took by storm strongholds of the enemy wherever he found them, burned them to the ground, and put all within to the sword. The last place to be stormed was Alexandria Minor. This also he captured, notwithstanding its desperate resistance. With this last victory the entire region came under his power.
The news that Tancred was subduing the entire country with a strong and numerous force soon reached the Turkish and Armenian satraps who dwelt in the mountains. Terror seized them lest he ascend to them also, conquer their cities, and enslave their people. In eager rivalry, they hastened to send envoys bearing immense gifts of gold
and silver, horses, mules, and silken stuffs. By such liberality they hoped to turn aside the wrath of this great chief, to win his favor, and obtain treaties of friendship. Thus Tancred was successful in all he undertook, for God was with him. The Lord directed all his works as those of a faithful servant.