This week in Christian history: First Crusade battle, ‘Parliament of the Saints,’ pope kidnapped

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, June 30, 2024

Battle of Dorylaeum – July 1, 1097

A 19th century depiction of the Battle of Dorylaeum, a 1097 fight between Christian and Muslim armies during the First Crusade. | Wikimedia Commons

This week marks the anniversary of the battle of Dorylaeum, the first major battle between Christian and Muslim forces that occurred during the First Crusade.

Located in modern-day Turkey, Dorylaeum saw as many as 15,000 Crusaders do battle with a Muslim army estimated to be at least 25,000 strong, though some claim it was as large as 150,000.

The Muslim forces under Kilij Arslan launched extensive attacks on the encampment, only to eventually be beaten back after reinforcements under Godfrey of Bouillon and Hugh of Vermandois arrived.

“[W]hen news of the spectacular victory reached Europe, support for the Crusade swelled, with ever more people pledging to take up the cross,” wrote Scott A. Richardson of the Warfare History Network.

“Not only were people encouraged because the war was already proving to be a military success, with the chance for otherwise destitute peasants in Europe to plunder a sultan’s treasure, but the Europeans truly believed that God was their guide and such victories were a statement of divine will.”