Description Of Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the revered Holy City, is perched on high hills, traditionally located in the tribe of Benjamin. To the west are the lands of Simeon, the Philistines, and the Mediterranean Sea, about twenty-four miles away near ancient Jaffa. Between Jerusalem and the sea lies Emmaus, later known as Nicopolis, where the Lord appeared to two disciples post-resurrection. Nearby is Modin, the stronghold of the Maccabees, and Nobe, where David and his men ate the bread of the Covenant with Ahimelech’s consent. Diospolis, or Lydda, is where Peter healed a paralytic. In Jaffa, Peter resurrected Tabitha and received Cornelius’ messenger while staying with Simon the Tanner, as noted in the Acts of the Apostles.
Fourteen miles east of the city lie the Jordan waters and the adjacent desert, once familiar to the prophets. Nearby is the wooded valley where the Salt Sea, also known as the Dead Sea, rests. Before Sodom’s destruction, this area was lush, akin to the Lord’s garden, as Genesis recounts.
Jericho, beyond the Jordan, was conquered by Joshua through prayer, not battle. Here, the Lord restored sight to a blind man. Nearby, Elijah withdrew to Galgala. Across the Jordan lie Gilead, Bashan, Ammon, and Moab, areas allotted to Reuben, Gad, and half the Manasseh tribe, now called Arabia.
South of Jerusalem lies Judah’s territory, home to Bethlehem, where the Savior was born. Tekoah, home of prophets Habakkuk and Amos, and Hebron, known as Cariatharbe, house the revered patriarchs’ tombs.
North of Jerusalem is Gibeon, known for Joshua’s victory and the miracle when the sun stood still. This is Ephraim’s land, featuring Shiloh, protector of the Lord’s tabernacle; Sichar, land of the Samaritan woman; and Bethel, site of Jeroboam’s sin. Sebaste contains the graves of John the Baptist, Elijah, and Abdias. It later became Samaria, named after the hill Shemer, once Israel’s capital, and now the region’s name. Northward is Neapolis [Nablus], formerly Sichem, founded by its namesake. According to Genesis, Simeon and Levi, avenging their sister Dinah’s disgrace by Sichem, killed him and his sons, burning the city.
Jerusalem, the capital of Judea, is situated in an area without streams, springs, woods, or pastures. According to ancient histories and Oriental traditions, the city was initially named Salem, then Jebus. After ruling seven years in Hebron, David expelled the Jebusites from Salem, expanded the city, and established it as his kingdom’s capital, naming it Jerusalem. This is detailed in I Chronicles 10.
Later, during Solomon’s reign, the city was known as Hierosolyma, or Solomon’s Jerusalem. Historians Egesippus and Josephus note that due to the sins of Judah, Titus, son of Vespasian, besieged and demolished Jerusalem 42 years after the Lord’s passion, leaving no stone unturned, fulfilling prophecy. Jerusalem was eventually rebuilt by Roman Emperor Aelius Hadrian, the fourth successor after Titus, and renamed Aelia in his honor, as mentioned in the synod of Nicaea reports.
“Let the bishops of Aelia be honored by all,”
The city was initially on the steep hill slope, facing east and south, covering Mt. Zion and Mt. Moriah slopes. Only the Temple and Antonia citadel were on the heights. Hadrian relocated the city to the mountain top, incorporating the site of the Lord’s passion and resurrection, previously outside the city, within its rebuilt boundaries.
Jerusalem is not as large as the biggest cities, yet it’s bigger than typical ones. Shaped like an oblong quadrangle with one longer side, it’s bordered by deep ravines on three sides. To the east is the valley of Jehoshaphat, referenced by the prophet Joel.
At the bottom of this valley a noble church has been built in honor of the Mother of God. It is believed that she is buried there, and her glorious sepulchre is still shown to the throngs who lock to the place. Through this valley lows the brook Cedron, swelled in winter by torrential rains. St. John the Evangelist mentions this, saying, Jesus
“went forth . . . over the brook Cedron, where there was a garden.”
Adjoining this valley on the south is another ravine called Hinnom. In the distribution of the land to the children of Israel, this was the limit of the lots assigned to Ben and Judah, as is written in Joshua:
The field Judas bought with the money from betraying the Savior is still visible. Known as Acheldama, it serves as a burial site for pilgrims. Chronicles mention this valley regarding Ahaz.
Jerusalem’s western boundary features a valley with an ancient pool, renowned during Judah’s kings’ era. This valley leads to the upper pool, often termed the lake of the Patriarch, near the old cemetery in the Lion’s cave. The city is accessible from the north via a flat road. Visitors can see where Stephen, the first martyr, was stoned by the Jews—where he knelt, praying for his persecutors as he died.
Jerusalem lies upon two hills, according to the words of David, who said:
“His foundation is in the holy mountains.“
The summits of these hills lie almost entirely inside the circuit of the walls and are
separated from each other by a little valley which divides the city into two parts.
The peak on the west is called Zion, whence the city also is frequently so designated, as,
“The Lord loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.”
The other hill to the east is called Mt. Moriah. Mention of this is made in II Chronicles as follows:
On the west, near the summit of the mount, stands the church called Zion, with the nearby massive tower of David1. Its towers, walls, and adjoining outworks rise above the city, forming the citadel. On the same height, on the eastern slope, sits the circular church of the Holy Resurrection. Positioned on the hill’s slope, it would have been dark inside. However, its beam-built roof, crafted into a crown, remains open to the sky, allowing light to illuminate the interior. Beneath this opening lies the Saviour’s sepulchre.
Before the arrival of our Latin peoples, Calvary or Golgotha, where the Lord’s passion occurred, was outside this church. It was believed the Vivifying Cross was found here. Tradition says the Saviour’s body was anointed with ointment and wrapped in spices in a linen cloth, following Jewish burial customs. Initially, there was a small chapel, but after Christians, aided by divine mercy, seized Jerusalem, they expanded the church. They added a new, massive structure enclosing the old church and incorporating the holy places.
On Mt. Moriah to the east, and on the southern slope, lies the Temple of the Lord2. This was built where King David bought a field from Araunah, or Ornan, the Jebusite, as told in the second book of Samuel and II Chronicles. David was commanded to build an altar to the Lord there, offering burnt and peace offerings. He called upon the Lord, who responded with fire from heaven on the altar. In this same place, Solomon built the Temple at the Lord’s command after his father’s death.
Moreover, This is the very same mount where God did shape Adam from the clay of the earth. In later days, Abraham brought Isaac unto its height, that he might be offered in sacrifice.
Ancient histories reveal the temple’s shape, its fall under Nebuchadnezzar, and its reconstruction by Zerubbabel and high priest Jesu under Cyrus of Persia. Later, Titus of Rome destroyed both the temple and the city. It is enough to note who designed it and describe its form, as previously mentioned, Omar, son of Khattab, the third successor of Muhammad, built this temple. Ancient wall inscriptions support this claim. The edifice is on a plateau, its length and width matching an arrow’s reach, forming a quadrangle with equal sides, enclosed by a moderately high wall. Entry from the west is through two gates, one named the Beautiful gate.
It was here, according to the account in the Acts of the Apostles, that Peter raised the man, “lame from his mother’s womb’ who sat there begging alms from the passersby.”
The exact name of the other gate we do not recall. There is one gate in the north wall and another in the east side, called now the Golden gate
To the south lies the royal palace, commonly referred to as the Temple of Solomon. Tall towers stand above each gate leading to the city and at each corner of the mentioned quadrangle. Priests of the Saracen faith once ascended these towers at set times to call for prayer. Some towers remain, while others have vanished due to various incidents. No one was permitted to reside within these grounds, and entry was only allowed with freshly washed, bare feet. Guards were posted at each entrance to ensure compliance. In the center is a higher court, perfectly square with equidistant sides. Two stairways ascend from the west and south, with only one approach on the east. Each corner housed a small chapel; some still exist, while others were replaced by newer structures. The Temple rises in the center of this upper court, shaped as an octagon with equal sides. Its walls are decorated with marble slabs and mosaics. The spherical roof is expertly covered with lead. Both courts, with their porticoes, are paved in white marble, allowing rain to flow purely into the numerous cisterns within the enclosure.
In the Temple’s center, within the inner columns, lies a rock with a grotto. Tradition holds the angel sat here when commanded by the Lord to strike the people for David’s presumption in numbering them. The sword was unsheathed until the Lord commanded mercy. David purchased this field for six hundred gold shekels and built an altar there. Before the Latins arrived, and for fifteen years after, this place was exposed. It was later covered with white marble by its holders. An altar and choir were constructed above, where a priest conducts sacred rituals.
Jerusalem, is located in Judea, also known as Palestina Prima. The name Judea originated when ten tribes left Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, for Jeroboam, Nabath’s son. Only the tribes of Ben and Judah remained with Rehoboam, so the land of these tribes is called Judea, named after Judah.
As we read in the Evangels: “They returned into the land of Judah.”
Rehoboam and his successors were the kings of Judah, while the rulers of the other ten tribes were the kings of Israel or Samaria. Palestine is also known as Philistia, named after the Philistines. There are three Palestines: the first is Judea, with Jerusalem as its capital. The second centers around Caesarea Maritima. The third’s capital is Bethsan or Scythopolis, currently under the control of the church of Nazareth.
Regardless of the name by which it may be called, Judea certainly formed part of the Land of Promise and of Syria, as is proved by the words of that treatise in which one reads as follows:
“In Syria, and especially in the region of Palestine which is a part of Syria and the
land where the Lord deigned to appear in the lesh, it is customary to make a free use of parables.”
This region lies practically in the center of the Land of Promise, according to the description of the boundaries thereof, which reads as follows: “From the wilderness and this Lebanon, even unto the great river, the river Euphrates . . . and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.
The city is in an arid area without any water sources. With no rills, springs, or rivers, the residents rely solely on rainwater. In winter, they collect rainwater in numerous cisterns across the city, storing it for use throughout the year. Therefore, I find Solinus’s claim that Judea is known for its waters surprising.
He says in the Polyhistory:
“Judea is renowned for its waters, but the nature of these varies.” I cannot account for this discrepancy except by saying either that he did not
tell the truth about the matter or that the face of the earth became
changed later. It is indeed well known that Hezekiah, king of Judah,
the friend of the Lord, stopped by the springs outside the city when
he heard that the army of Sennacherib, the son of Salmanassar, was at
hand. Concerning this we read as follows in the second book of
Chronicles: “And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come,
and that he was purposed to ight against Jerusalem, he took counsel
with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains
which were without the city. … So there was gathered much people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the brook that ran through the midst of the land, saying, Why should the kings of Assyria come, and ind much water?”
The most important of these springs is the one called the fountain of Gihon, which is mentioned in the same book as follows: “This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of Gihon, and brought it straight down to the west side of the city of David.” Gihon lies to the south in the midst of the valley of Hinnom, in Jerusalem, where now stands the church built in honor of the blessed martyr Procopius.”
It is here that Solomon is said to have been annointed king, according to the account in the irst book of Kings: “Take with you the servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my son to ride upon mine own mule, and brings him down to Gihon: and let Zadok
the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel and Judah and blow ye with the trumpet, and say, God save King Solomon.”
It is evident, however, that these events occurred before the time of Solinus, for a perusal of the Polyhistory clearly shows that this writer lived later than the reign of Titus, that prince of the Romans who destroyed Jerusalem, and prior to that of Aelius Hadrian, who repaired it. In the fortieth chapter of this work we read as follows: “Jerusalem was the capital of Judea, but it was destroyed. Jericho then became the
capital, but it too ceased to be the head after it was conquered in the
war with Artaxerxes.”
A few miles beyond the city, there are some springs, but they provide limited water. About a mile south of Jerusalem, where two valleys converge, lies the famous pool of Siloam. This is where the Lord sent the man born blind to bathe and gain sight. The pool is small, located in the valley’s lowest part, with waters that are neither sweet nor consistent, bubbling up intermittently every other day.
Muhammadists Poison Wells
Upon learning of the approaching Christian army, the citizens blocked the springs and reservoirs near the city, hoping thirst would force the Christians to abandon the siege. This caused immense suffering for our army, as detailed in the following chapters. Meanwhile, those inside the city had plenty of water. Rainwater was stored, and water from outside springs was funneled into two large pools near the temple. One, known as the sheep pool, was for washing sacrificial animals. The evangelist John notes this pool had five porches and an angel occasionally stirred the waters; the first to enter after this was healed. It was here the Lord healed the paralytic and told him to rise and walk.
Crusaders Arrive
On June 7, in the year of the Incarnation of the Lord 1099, the legions of the Christian army encamped before Jerusalem. The number of pilgrims, both men and women of all ages, was reportedly about forty thousand. However, only twenty thousand foot soldiers and fifteen hundred knights were among them. The rest were a vulnerable group, sick and weak.
Inside Jerusalem, it was said there were forty thousand well-equipped warriors comprised of both Muhammidists and Jews. Many had gathered from nearby fortresses and surrounding areas. They came not just for safety, but to help defend the city against the looming threat, bringing additional armed men and food supplies.
As the Christians neared the city, they consulted locals about the best attack direction. The deep gorges made the east and south inaccessible, so they chose the north. The camp stretched from St. Stephen’s Gate to the gate below the Tower of David on the west. Godfrey, Duke of Lorraine, led the first camp, followed by Robert of Flanders, then Robert of Normandy, and Tancred’s troops near a corner tower later named for him. The Count of Toulouse extended the blockade to the west gate. However, Raymond realized his position was weak due to a dominating tower and a valley hindering attacks. Advised by locals, he moved part of his camp to the hill where Jerusalem stands, between the city and the church of Zion, about a bowshot north. He left part of his camp to facilitate city assaults and protect the church of Zion, believed to be where the Savior dined with disciples, washed their feet, and where the Holy Spirit descended on Pentecost. Tradition holds this is where Mary died, and Stephen’s tomb is shown here.
The camp’s arrangement left half the city outside the siege lines. From the north gate, St. Stephen’s, to the tower over the valley of Jehoshaphat, and from there to the city’s southern angle, above the same valley, and to the south gate, Mt. Zion’s, remained unblocked.
On the fifth day, heralds proclaimed that everyone, fully armed, should prepare to attack. United in purpose, they attacked with vigor, quickly demolishing the outer fortifications. The defenders retreated to the inner walls, doubting their ability to resist further. Without scaling ladders or machines, the attackers couldn’t capture the city despite their enthusiasm. After working from dawn until the seventh hour, they realized engines were necessary. They postponed operations to construct engines, hoping, with God’s help, for a more successful attack.
Wood Shortage
The chiefs eagerly focused on acquiring materials for siege engines. The nearby area offered little, but luckily, a native Syrian Christian in the camp led them to a hidden valley about six or seven miles from Jerusalem with tall trees. Although not ideal, enough trees were found for their needs. Workers and carpenters were gathered, the trees were felled, and transported by camels and wagons to the city. Artisans and skilled workers were assembled, and with tireless effort, they built towers, hurling machines called mangons or fetraries, and battering rams to breach the walls. Workers without means were paid from public donations. Only the count of Toulouse, wealthier than the others, could afford to pay workers without aid. He used his funds to pay his workers and also financially supported many nobles who lacked resources.
While the greater chiefs handled significant matters, other nobles and leaders guided people to areas with native low bushes and shrubs. They cut pliant twigs and withes, transporting them back to camp on horses, asses, and pack animals to create wickerwork coverings for the builders’ main tasks. Activity was widespread. Everyone worked tirelessly; no one was idle or indulged in leisure. Each person did the work best suited to their ability, considering it honorable and useful. Both rich and poor joined the task without regard to rank, as equal zeal and enthusiasm prevailed. Those of higher position were eager to assist, while those of lesser rank received equal attention. All felt their pilgrimage efforts were meaningless unless they entered the city, the goal for which they had faced many hardships. They considered any effort worthwhile if it contributed to this goal, hoping to see their vows fulfilled.
Water Shortage
The army began to suffer greatly from thirst, as Jerusalem is in a dry region without nearby water sources. No streams, springs, or wells of fresh water were accessible. Once the infidels learned of the Christians’ approach, they blocked these sources. They filled them with dirt and refuse, making them unusable for a prolonged siege. The rainwater cisterns and reservoirs were damaged or hidden to prevent the thirsty pilgrims from finding relief. Nevertheless, people from Bethlehem and the faithful of Tekoah frequently aided the army. Guided by them, pilgrims ventured to distant springs, four or five miles away from the siege site. Under harsh conditions, they pushed and jostled to access water. After delays due to disputes, they transported the muddy water in skins back to camp, selling it at high prices in small amounts.
The fountain of Siloam, near the city, couldn’t provide enough water for the people because its supply was inconsistent. The sweltering heat of June worsened the pilgrims’ thirst. Their work and the dust increased their dryness. They would search for water in small groups, often encountering others on the same quest. Even when springs were found, disputes and fights frequently occurred. Those on foot could ration the water when found, but those with horses faced challenges, needing to lead them miles for water. Animals roamed weakly, suffering from thirst, and many died, leaving the camp air foul with decay.
During the siege, relentless thirst tormented the people as much as the previous food shortage in Antioch. Despite warnings, they carelessly spread out to find food and horse fodder. The enemy, aware of this behavior, often ambushed these foragers from unguarded city areas. Many were killed, their horses taken. Some escaped, but not without injuries.
Our numbers dwindled daily, with many falling to various human misfortunes. There were no new recruits to replace those lost. Meanwhile, the enemy’s forces grew; their allies easily accessed the city through unblocked areas, joining the citizens to plot our downfall.
Enemy Prepares
Our forces were fully committed, constructing engines, weaving frames, and assembling ladders with precision. The besieged were equally vigilant, employing every resistance tactic. They had a stockpile of beams from tall trees, wisely gathered for Jerusalem’s defense. Mimicking us, they built machines within the walls equal in height but superior in material, demonstrating great enthusiasm to match our engines. Constant guards on walls and towers closely monitored our army, particularly our war engines. All observations were immediately conveyed to Jerusalem’s leaders, who skillfully replicated our efforts to counter our ingenuity. This was simpler for them, as they had more skilled workers, tools, and ample supplies of iron, copper, and ropes than we did. All citizens were ordered to contribute, but the faithful under oppression faced harsher demands, performing unusual tasks. They were forced to pay heavy sums and were imprisoned, as the infidels feared they might aid the Christians. None dared to appear in public unless burdened like pack animals. Skilled tradesmen were compelled to work. On the slightest accusation, they were swiftly punished. They had to house and support refugees despite their limited means, often sacrificing their own needs. If public work required resources, the infidels raided the homes of the faithful, seizing what they needed. Christians could be summoned at any time, and failure to respond promptly resulted in being violently seized, a situation so dire even an enemy might feel pity.
Their suffering seemed endless. Exhausted, they reached such despair that they preferred to die in the Lord than live on earth. Their existence was akin to a living death, with no time even for minimal rest or refreshment. Any mishap was solely blamed on them. They couldn’t move freely in or out of their homes without suspicion. They faced insults from anyone, and false accusations were easily made against them.
Ships Arrive at Jaffa
During the siege of Jerusalem, a messenger reported that Genoese ships had docked at Jaffa. The newcomers asked the leaders for an army escort to safely guide them to Jerusalem. Jaffa is a coastal city, described by Solinus in chapter thirty-nine of his work, De memorabilibus mundi.
“Jaffa is the oldest city in the whole world, for it was founded before the lood. One may see there a rock which still bears traces of the chains which bound Andromeda, who was exposed at that place to the sea monster, according to an authentic story. Marcus Scaurus, in fact, during his aedileship exhibited the bones of that beast at Rome together with other marvelous things. The fact is noted in the annals, and the actual measurements of the beast given. The ribs were more than forty feet long, and the height of the monster was greater than that of the elephants of India. The vertebrae were more than half a foot in width.”
In his epitaph on St. Paula, Jerome also testifies to the same thing in
these words: “She saw Jaffa also, the port to which Jonas led the same
city, to borrow from the tales of the poets, which witnessed Andromeda
bound to the rock.”
The count of Toulouse, with greater resources, agreed to a request and sent Geldemar Carpinel, a noble, with thirty knights and fifty foot soldiers. Once they departed, leaders realized the force was insufficient. They requested more troops, and the count sent fifty additional knights led by Raymond Pilet and William de Sabran.
Geldemar, leading his party, descended into the plain near Lydda and Ramlah and faced an enemy force of six hundred. They attacked, killing four knights and many foot soldiers. Despite their small numbers, the Christians resisted fiercely, encouraging each other to fight. Luckily, two leaders following them arrived during the battle and joined the fight. Together, they attacked the enemy, killing two hundred and forcing the rest to flee, thanks to divine mercy. However, the Christians lost nobles Gilbert de Treves and Aicard de Montmerle, causing great sorrow. After this victory, the group continued safely to Jaffa. The sailors welcomed them joyfully, and they all enjoyed mutual affection and pleasant conversation.
At Jaffa, they waited while those arriving by ship organized their baggage for the march. Suddenly, the Egyptian fleet appeared at night before the city, having been near Ascalon to harm the Christians. Hearing this, people rushed to the shore. Initially, they tried to protect the ships but soon realized their numbers were too few to resist. They dismantled the vessels, taking sails, ropes, and equipment, and withdrew to the citadel.
One ship was away on a raid and returned with spoils to find the enemy fleet controlling Jaffa’s port. It continued on, aided by favorable winds, safely reaching Laodicea.
Jaffa was a wilderness, devoid of inhabitants. The citizens distrusted the city’s fortifications and left before the Christians arrived. Our troops occupied only the citadel. Once ready, the newcomers departed for Jerusalem with their belongings, escorted by military guides. They were joyfully welcomed by the legions before Jerusalem, bringing valuable assistance. Skilled in building, like most sailors, they expertly felled trees, smoothed beams, and erected machines quickly. They provided various essential supplies, greatly aiding the expeditionary forces. With their help, pilgrims completed tasks that had seemed nearly impossible before their arrival.
Those who stayed at the siege site diligently continued building machines, having completed most of the work. The duke and the counts of Flanders and Normandy appointed Gaston de Bearn, a capable and impressive man, to oversee the project and ensure the workers stayed focused. The leaders often organized large groups to gather timber for construction. Some gathered shrubs, bushes, and sapling branches to create wickerwork coverings for the engines. Others collected animal hides, from those that died of thirst or were killed, to cover the wickerwork and protect it from enemy fire.
The keen interest of the duke and the two counts sparked significant activity among the troops on the north side of the wall. Similar enthusiasm was seen along the fortifications from the corner tower to the west gate under the tower of David. Here, Lord Tancred and other nobles diligently carried out work. On the south, the count of Toulouse and his army worked tirelessly. Even more enthusiasm prevailed because Raymond had more resources and recently gained new reinforcements. All who arrived from the ships joined his camp, bringing supplies like ropes, hammers, and tools essential for building machines. They included skilled workmen experienced in constructing machines, suggesting ways to hasten the work. The noble William Embriacus, leading the Genoese, also dedicated much effort to building the machines.
For four weeks, the entire army worked tirelessly, and finally, after great effort, their task was completed. The leaders set a date for the city attack. However, a serious conflict had arisen between the count of Toulouse and Lord Tancred, causing discord among other nobles for various reasons. It seemed crucial to the chiefs, bishops, clergy, and all the people to first restore harmony among them. With sincere hearts, they could then seek divine aid.
Divine Help Called For
In The Year Of Our Lord 1099, on the 8th of July, A fast was announced for a specific day by public order. Wearing their religious robes and barefoot, the bishops and clergy led the people with great respect to the Mount of Olives. They carried crosses and saint relics. There, Peter the Hermit and Arnulf, a knowledgeable man and friend of the count of Normandy, spoke to the people. They urged everyone to be patient and charitable with each other.
The Mount of Olives is about a mile east of the city, beyond the valley of Jehoshaphat. St. Luke calls it a sabbath day’s walk from Jerusalem. It was from this mount that, forty days after His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven before His disciples, disappearing into a cloud.
When the faithful arrived, they prayed humbly, with deep emotion and sincerity. The leaders reconciled, and all the people renewed their love for each other. Then they descended the mount and went back up to the church of Mt. Zion, located near the city on the south, at the top of the mount.
Meanwhile, the townspeople wondered what the procession around the city meant. From the walls and towers, they shot arrows and stones at the Christian ranks, injuring some who weren’t careful. To mock the Christians, the unbelievers placed crosses on the walls and insulted them. They spat on them and used foul language. Boldly, they shouted blasphemies against Jesus Christ and His teachings. Despite their anger, the Christians continued their mission with dedication and eventually reached the church, their goal. After praying there, they set a day when they would all attack the city. After the procession ended, the army returned to camp. Orders were given to ensure everything needed for the attack was ready, so there would be no delays when the time came.
Leaders Move Camp
The day for the city’s assault neared. The night before, the duke and two counts relocated their camp. They saw the section of the wall they had been blockading was heavily fortified with machines, weapons, and skilled warriors. Knowing the danger from this side, the infidels had strengthened it. Realizing they could achieve little there, they noted the other side of Jerusalem, not yet besieged, had weaker defenses. That night, with foresight and effort, they moved their machines and siege tower, piece by piece, to the area between St. Stephen’s gate and the northern tower by the valley of Jehoshaphat. The camp was also shifted there. Working tirelessly through the night, they transported and assembled the engines before dawn. The movable tower was placed against a lower, more accessible wall, allowing defenders and attackers to almost engage hand-to-hand. This significant task saw the engines moved half a mile, assembled, and positioned before sunrise.
The Battle Begins
At dawn, citizens rushed to the walls to observe the Christians’ activities outside. Astonishingly, they noticed a section of the camp, present for two days with all its equipment, had vanished. Surveying the area and wall’s perimeter, they realized the duke’s camp had relocated, setting up their engines as noted. That same night, in different city areas, other chiefs mirrored this strategy, maintaining vigilance and setting up engines. Almost simultaneously, the count of Toulouse positioned his carefully crafted tower against the ramparts between Mt. Zion’s church and the city. Other chiefs by the tower at the corner, now Tancred’s tower, also moved a wooden tower to the wall, with similar care and effort, matching the others in height and construction.
The three machines looked very similar, featuring square structures with the city side protected by a double layer. A clever mechanism allowed the outer layer to drop, creating a bridge to the wall for soldiers to enter the city. This did not expose the machine’s side, as the second layer provided equal protection to that of the other sides.
At daybreak, as planned, the Christian army gathered before the city, fully armed for battle. Their sole aim was to reclaim Jerusalem for Christian liberty or sacrifice their lives for Christ. Everyone, regardless of age or health, eagerly longed for battle. Even women, defying their natural weakness, boldly took up arms and fought with remarkable strength. United, the Christians advanced, moving the new engines closer to the walls to better attack those fiercely defending the ramparts and towers.
Arrows and missiles rained down as stones, thrown by hand and machines, struck with force. The infidels used every method to stop our advance. The Christians, protected by shields and wickerwork screens, matched their efforts. Darts flew from bows and ballistae, and stones launched from engines as the pilgrims pushed closer to the fortifications. Their aim was to weaken the enemy’s resolve, allowing no respite. Some, inside the movable tower, pushed it forward with poles; others used engines to hurl rocks against the walls, hoping repeated impacts would bring them down. Meanwhile, others wielded smaller weapons called mangons to throw stones and deter the defenders on the ramparts.
Those pushing the engine forward faced challenges, as a wide ditch before the bulwarks impeded its progress. Similarly, attempts to breach the walls were unsatisfactory. The citizens hung sacks of straw and chaff, ropes, tapestries, beams, and silk-filled mattresses from the walls. These soft buffers nullified the missile impacts, thwarting the attackers’ efforts. Additionally, the enemy’s numerous city engines outmatched ours, launching arrows and stones to impede the Christians’ work. Both sides fought with intense hatred from morning till night. The conflict was unrelenting, with spears and arrows raining down, and stone missiles colliding mid-air, causing various deaths. Everyone faced equal labor and danger, whether under the duke’s banner or the count of Toulouse’s and other leaders’, as the attack occurred simultaneously in three places. Christians’ work increased as they had to fill the moat with debris, stones, and earth to create a path for the machine.
The defenders faced an equally challenging task as they tried to repel the besieging forces. They valiantly resisted the intense efforts of the attackers. Desperately, they hurled burning brands and darts soaked in sulphur, pitch, and oil to ignite the siege engines. Skillfully, the city’s engines targeted those outside, weakening their supports and piercing their sides. Fighters who climbed the tower to attack the city were alarmed and narrowly avoided falling. Eventually, the Christians poured water from above, quelling the flames and thwarting the fire throwers’ efforts.
Nightfall ended the brave conflict amidst extreme danger, but the outcome remained uncertain. Fighters found some physical rest, yet constant mental turmoil hindered sleep, keeping them restless. Troubled by worries, their hearts surged as they awaited dawn, eager to resume combat. They longed to test their battle fortune again, trusting in the Lord for a better outcome and victory.
Their anxiety was immense, fearing the enemy might secretly ignite the engines. They kept a constant watch, spending a sleepless night. The besieged shared similar fears, worried that the foe might use the midnight silence to breach the city by breaking through or climbing the fortifications. Throughout the night, they diligently patrolled the fortifications, knowing it was a matter of life and death. Officers of the night watch were stationed in each tower.
Meanwhile, the elders and city leaders roamed the streets, urging others to watch over their families, belongings, and the city. They carefully inspected the gates to prevent enemy tricks. Both armies were plagued with the same anxieties, with no peace for rest. The mental strain was more exhausting than the previous day’s battle.
The Morning Of Friday, July 15, 1099.
The night was ending, with the first light hinting at the much-awaited day. The zealous people gathered again for battle. Each man quickly returned to his assigned post. Some operated machines, hurling heavy stones at the walls. Others, from lower positions, pushed the siege engine forward with all their might. Those on the top floor attacked the enemy in the opposite towers with arrows, ballistae, and other weapons. The relentless bombardment kept the defenders from raising a hand, forcing them to stay behind the ramparts. Once the moat was filled and fore walls breached, some pushed the tower closer. Meanwhile, a larger force unleashed stones and arrows to keep defenders from hindering the engine’s advance.
As the citizens observed the Christians intensifying their efforts, they also increased their diligence, countering each stratagem and meeting force with force. They retaliated by hurling darts and stones at the besiegers and those advancing the tower, showing remarkable energy that successfully hindered progress. To end our efforts, they hurled fire onto the machines using fragile jars and other means. They also threw down sulfur, pitch, grease, fat, wax, dry wood, and stubble—anything that could fuel the flames. This resulted in terrible havoc in both armies, with many knights and foot soldiers perishing from various mishaps and accidents. Some were crushed by missiles from the engines, others collapsed, pierced through breastplate and shield by arrows and spears. Some died instantly from sharp rocks hurled by hand or machine. Others lived with shattered limbs, disabled for days or forever. Despite these perils, the contestants remained undeterred, their determination to fight unwavering. It was difficult to judge which side fought with greater enthusiasm.
Muhammadists Seek Aid Of Witch’s
It does not seem right, however, to pass over in silence a notable event which is said to have happened that day. Among their other machines outside the walls, the Christians had one which caused dreadful slaughter among the defenders by the violent impetus with which it hurled forth rocks of immense weight. When the infidels perceived that no skill of theirs could prevail against this, they brought two sorceresses to bewitch it and by their magic incantations render it powerless. These women were engaged in their magic rites and divinations on the wall when suddenly a huge millstone from that very engine struck them. They, together with three girls who attended them, were crushed to death and their lifeless bodies dashed from the wall. Thus what was said in sacred scripture was fulfilled “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer shall surely be put to death. They shall be stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon them” and “The Lord Said I will destroy the cities of your land and tear down all your strongholds. I will destroy your witchcraft and you will no longer cast spells.” At this sight great applause rose from the ranks of the Christian army and exultation filled the hearts of all in our camp. On the other hand, deep sorrow fell upon the people of Jerusalem because of that disaster
The Vision Of Christ
By the seventh hour, the conflict remained unresolved with no clear victor. The Christians, exhausted, began to lose hope and ease their efforts. The tower was nearly destroyed from constant battering, and other machines were smoking from firebrands hurled at them. It seemed wise to retreat slightly and postpone the fight until the next day. Doubts about success crept in, courage waned, and many left the ranks. Meanwhile, the enemy grew bolder, taunting with increased bravado. At this crisis, divine aid came to the relief of the faithful and, in their desperate need, brought them aid according to their wish. For on the Mount of Olives appeared a warrior who never was seen thereafter. Waving a splendid gleaming shield, he gave the legions the signal to return and renew the combat. and at this moment the people remembered what was written in the sacred scripture:
Duke Godfrey and his brother Eustace positioned themselves in the top of the movable tower to participate in the attack and ensure the siege engine’s protection. Upon witnessing the miraculous vision, the duke joyfully called for the people and key leaders to return. Inspired by God’s mercy, everyone rejoined the battle with renewed spirit. Those previously withdrawn due to wounds or exhaustion now returned with intensified strength and enthusiasm. The leaders and prominent figures led the charge, motivating others with their bravery. Women also contributed, encouraging the fighters and bringing water to prevent fainting on the battlefield.
Joy filled the camp as if victory was certain. Within an hour, the moat was filled, the outer wall breached, and the siege engine pushed against the walls. The citizens had suspended heavy beams from the ramparts to absorb the machines’ blows. Fighters in the siege tower managed to cut the ropes of two of these buffers. They fell, caught by men below with some risk, and were immediately used to reinforce the bridge. This bridge, later extended from the movable tower to the wall, was weak and needed the beams underneath to support the crossing weight.
The Final Push
During the vigorous assault on the city’s north side, the count of Toulouse and his forces attacked the south with equal zeal. For three days, they tirelessly filled the moat. Once completed, they positioned a siege engine against the wall, bringing defenders and attackers so close they could almost strike each other with lances. The fighters’ enthusiasm and perseverance were unmatched. They intensified their efforts, inspired by a servant of Christ on the Mount of Olives who assured them that Jerusalem would be taken that day. The sight of the waving shield from the Mount of Olives fueled their determination, reinforcing their belief in victory. Both Christian forces advanced with synchronized progress, seemingly guided by a single great Leader, promising due reward for their devotion. It was indeed time to reap the rewards of their relentless efforts and faithful service.
The duke’s and the two counts’ legions attacking the city from the north, aided by God, shattered the outworks and filled the moat. The exhausted enemy could no longer resist. The Christian troops safely approached the wall, with few adversaries daring to confront them through loopholes. On the duke’s order, fighters used siege engines to ignite straw sacks and cotton-stuffed cushions. The north wind spread dense smoke into the city, overwhelming defenders, who struggled to see or breathe and abandoned the ramparts. Seeing this, the duke ordered rescued beams from the enemy to be placed so that one end rested on the machine and the other on the wall. He then lowered the siege tower’s side, creating a strong bridge supported by the beams. Consequently, the enemy’s resources were used against them.
Godfrey Breaches The City
After adjusting the bridge, Duke Godfrey, with his brother Eustace, led the entry into the city, urging others to follow. They were closely followed by the noble brothers Ludolf and Gislebert from Tournai. Soon, a large cavalry and infantry force crossed, overwhelming the engine and bridge. Seeing the Christians on the wall and the duke’s standard raised, the enemy fled the ramparts and towers, retreating to narrow streets. Observing the duke and leaders capturing towers, our forces, without hesitation, used scaling ladders. Each knight pair, following a public order, had prepared a ladder, allowing them to join on the wall swiftly.
Immediately after Godfrey came the count of Flanders, the duke of Normandy, and the brave Tancred, a commendable warrior. Joining them were Hugh the Elder, count of St-Pol; Baldwin du Bourg; Gaston de Bearn; Gaston de Beziers; Gerard de Roussillon; Thomas de La Fere; Conan the Breton; Count Rainbald of Orange; Ludovic de Moncons; Conon de Montague, and his son Lambert, along with many others whose names I don’t recall.
Seeing these knights enter safely, the duke sent some with an escort to open the north gate, now St. Stephen’s gate, allowing the waiting crowd outside to enter. It was unbarred promptly, and the entire army surged in chaotically without order or discipline.
It was a Friday at the ninth hour3. Truly, it seemed divinely ordained that the faithful who were fighting for the glory of the Savior should have obtained the consummation of their desires at the same hour and on the very day on which the Lord had suffered in that city for the salvation of the world. It was on that day, as we read, that man was created and the second was delivered over to death for the salvation of the first. It was fitting, therefore, that, at that very hour, those who were members of His body should triumph in His Name over His Enemies.
The duke and his companions combined their forces, moving through the city’s streets and squares with swords drawn, protected by shields and helmets. They struck down every enemy they came across, sparing none. The carnage was terrible, with severed heads everywhere, making it impossible to move without stepping over the bodies. The leaders had pushed through various paths nearly to the city center, causing massive destruction. A large group followed them, eager for the enemy’s blood and focused on destruction.
The Count of Toulouse and his allies near Mt. Zion were unaware that Jerusalem had been captured. The Christians’ triumphant shouts and the cries from the massacre alarmed the defenders. Confused by the noise, they soon realized the city was breached. They fled, abandoning their posts, with most seeking safety in the nearby citadel. The army lowered the bridge, scaled the walls unopposed, and opened the south gate for more troops. The Count of Toulouse entered with his retinue, including Isoard, Count of Die, and others whose names are lost to history. Together, they ravaged the city. Those who escaped the duke’s troops faced this new threat, encountering deadly peril. The massacre’s horror was so intense that even the victors felt repulsed.
Most people sought safety in the Temple’s courtyard since it was hidden and well-protected by walls, towers, and gates. However, this did not save them. Tancred quickly followed with most of the army, broke into the Temple, and after a brutal massacre, took a large amount of gold, silver, and jewels. It’s said he later returned these treasures untouched once the chaos settled. Afterward, other leaders, having killed everyone they found throughout the city, heard that many had fled to the Temple for refuge. They rushed there together, sending in knights and soldiers who killed everyone inside. No mercy was shown, and the area was soaked in blood.
It was indeed the righteous judgment of God which ordained that those who had profaned the sanctuary of the Lord by their superstitious rites and had caused it to be an strange place to His faithful people should atone for their sin by death and, by pouring out their own blood, purify the sacred city. It was impossible to look upon the vast numbers of the slain without horror everywhere lay fragments of human bodies, and the very ground was covered with the blood of the slain. It was not alone the spectacle of headless bodies and mutilated limbs strewn in all directions that roused horror in all who looked upon them. Still more dreadful was it to gaze upon the victors themselves, dripping with blood from head to foot, an ominous sight which brought terror to all who met them.
It is reported that within the Temple enclosure alone about ten thousand infidels perished, in addition to those who lay slain everywhere throughout the city in the streets and squares, the number of whom was estimated as no less.
The soldiers scoured the city for survivors hiding in narrow alleys, dragging them out to be slaughtered. Some grouped together, invaded homes, and seized families, brutally killing them or throwing them to their deaths. Each raider claimed ownership of the house he entered, along with its contents. Before capturing the city, the pilgrims had agreed that whatever one claimed by force would be his permanently. They meticulously searched the city, killing citizens, and invaded secluded areas, breaking into private rooms. At each captured house, the victor displayed his shield and arms to indicate it was already claimed.
After the city was fully conquered and the infidels slain, the leaders gathered to discuss next steps. To ensure better protection, they decided guards should be posted at each tower and reliable men positioned as gatekeepers at city entrances before disarming. This defense was to remain until a leader, chosen by consensus, was appointed to oversee Jerusalem, handling all responsibilities and administration. They wisely feared enemy deceit and anticipated potential surprise attacks.
The Crusaders Rejoice
Once the city was organized, arms were set aside. Dressed in clean clothes, with washed hands and bare feet, they humbly visited the sacred sites the Savior had blessed with His presence. Filled with emotion, they kissed these holy places. They showed deep reverence at the church of the Passion and Resurrection of the Lord. The leaders were welcomed by Jerusalem’s clergy and citizens. These Christians, long oppressed, were eager to thank the Redeemer for their newfound freedom. Holding crosses and saints’ relics, they entered the church with hymns and sacred songs.
It was uplifting to see the pilgrims approach the holy places with deep devotion and joy. They kissed the memorials of the Lord’s time on earth with happiness in their hearts and spirits. There were tears and sighs everywhere, not from sorrow or worry, but from deep devotion and spiritual joy as an offering to the Lord. The voices of thankful people filled not just the church but all of Jerusalem, as if reaching up to the heavens. Truly, it could be said of them, “The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous.”
Acts of mercy, inspired by deep faith, spread throughout the city. Many confessed their sins to the Lord with tears and vowed never to commit them again. Others generously gave all they had to the elderly, the sick, and the needy, seeing it as a great blessing and their true wealth to witness such a day. Some walked to holy places on their knees, their tears soaking the ground as they prayed to the Lord. “Rivers of waters run down mine eyes.”
Why should I say more? It’s hard to put into words the deep and sacred devotion of those faithful people. Grateful for the divine favor rewarding their efforts, they competed in acts of kindness. They constantly remembered the mercy granted to them. Who could be so hard-hearted that their spirit didn’t soften when experiencing the reward of the pilgrimage and the battles they fought?
To those of deeper spiritual nature, this privilege seemed to have been granted as a pledge of that future recompense which the Lord has promised to bestow upon His
saints, that through the gifts received in this present life they might have a sure hope of reward hereafter. This pilgrimage to Jerusalem which they were now making on earth seemed to promise a definite assurance that they would also take part at last in that future one in the life hereafter.
The bishops and priests held mass in the churches, prayed for the people, and thanked the Lord for His blessings
Vision Of The Resurrection Of The Dead
On that same day, Bishop Adhemar of Puy, a man of noble character, was seen in the Holy City by many. Several reliable witnesses claimed they saw him leading the way up the walls, urging others to follow. Throughout the day, he appeared to many visiting the holy sites. Other deceased pilgrims, who had passed away during their journey, were also seen visiting these sacred places. This showed that those who moved on to eternal happiness still fulfilled their deepest wishes. This event offered a strong sign of the future resurrection.
When the Lord was resurrected, many saints who had died also rose and appeared in the Holy City. It was fitting for this miracle to happen again to help the faithful as they cleared the holy resurrection site from pagan practices. Those who followed the risen Lord with devotion were believed to rise in spirit. Many similar signs appeared to God’s people, seen as miracles through divine grace. This brought such joy and spiritual excitement that people forgot their hardships and felt blessed to witness this divine favor.
There went up from the Holy City a shout of spiritual rejoicing to the Lord, and, as if by direct command from Him, solemn rites were celebrated again and again so that these words of the prophet seemed to be literally fulfilled: “Rejoice ye with Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all ye that love her.”
Peter’s Triumphant Return
There were Christians living in Jerusalem who had seen the venerable Peter the Hermit in that city four or five years earlier. At that time, the lord patriarch and other leaders of clergy and people gave him letters to inspire the Western princes to aid them. Recognizing him, they humbly revered him, recalling his first visit and the friendship he established. They gratefully thanked him for faithfully undertaking the mission out of pure piety. They praised the Lord, glorified through His servants, for guiding this man’s path beyond expectations. The Lord empowered Peter’s speech to inspire kingdoms and peoples to endure hardships for Christ. Truly, his words seemed to come from the Lord, who said,
“So shall my word be that go forth out of my
mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that
which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
Accordingly, individually and as a whole, the people vied with one
another in showing him honors of all kinds. To him alone, after the
Lord, they ascribed their release from the hard servitude which they
had endured for so many years and the restoration of the Holy City to
its original state of liberty”
The patriarch had traveled to Cyprus to gather resources at great expense to help the city and its people. His goal was to collect donations from the faithful to pay the heavy taxes and tributes forced on the Christians of Jerusalem, which they couldn’t afford. Failure to pay could lead to the destruction of churches or harm to the people, as had happened before. Unaware of recent events in the city, he feared returning to the same dire situation. Yet, during his absence, peace and calm had unexpectedly settled over the city.
After finishing their prayers and visiting sacred sites with true devotion, the leaders decided it was crucial to clean the city, especially the temple areas, to prevent disease from the smell of the dead bodies. This task was given to the captured citizens who had survived imprisonment. However, since there weren’t enough of them to complete the work, the army’s poor were offered a daily wage to help clean the city quickly.
The Crusaders Immortalize The Event
After attending to this matter, each leader returned to his residence, prepared in advance by household servants. The city overflowed with goods, ensuring everyone had plenty. Seized houses revealed treasures of gold, silver, gems, and fine clothing, along with ample grain, wine, oil, and water, which had been scarce during the siege. Those who took over these homes generously supported their less fortunate comrades. On the second and third days after Jerusalem’s occupation, a well-organized market was held, providing even the common people with abundant supplies. Days were filled with joyous celebration as pilgrims enjoyed rest and nourishment. The abundance of heavenly gifts amazed them and reminded them of the Lord’s generosity.
To preserve this historic event’s memory, a universally approved decree was issued. It designated this day as sacred, dedicated to recounting all the prophets had foretold about this occasion, for the glory and praise of the Christian name. On this day intercession should always be made to the Lord for the souls of those by whose laudable and successful labors the city beloved of God had been restored to the
pristine freedom of the Christian faith.
Crusaders Rebuild
The infidels who had fled to the citadel of David to escape the sword realized the Christians had fully taken the city. Unable to continue the siege, they approached the count of Toulouse, nearby the tower, and secured a promise for safe passage to Ascalon with their families, along with their belongings. Accepting these terms, they surrendered the citadel.
Those tasked with cleaning the city worked diligently. Bodies were either burned or buried, depending on the situation. Within a few days, the city was restored to its usual cleanliness. People then confidently returned to the sacred sites, enjoying conversations in the city’s streets and squares.
Thus Jerusalem was taken in the year of the Incarnation of the Lord 1099 on Friday, The 15th of July, about the ninth hour of the day.
It was the third year from the one in which the faithful people had assumed the burden of this great pilgrimage.
Pope Urban II was presiding over the Holy Roman Catholic Church,
Henry IV was administering the Holy Roman Empire,
King Philip was reigning in France,
and Alexius I was wielding the scepter over the Greeks.
Guiding and directing all was the
merciful hand of the Lord
To whom be the Honor and Glory for Ever and Ever!
- Their has been historical confusion about the location of the Tower Of David and The Royal Palace. Do not take this text as an accurate description of actual locations. ↩︎
- see above footnote ↩︎
- the beginning of the 9th hour is about 2:30pm on July 15 (day crusaders took Jerusalem) and 3:15pm on April 12 (Jesus’s Crucifixion’s) (9th hour of day, aka 9 hours after sunrise.) ↩︎