Top 10 Most Surprising Things About the Crusades

The medieval Crusades were a series of military campaigns initiated by European Christians in the 11th to 13th centuries.


Crusaders besieging Damascus Chronique dErnoul et de Bernard le Tresorier late 15th C f.280v BL Royal MS 15 E I

The Crusades were a complex series of events that intertwined religious fervor, political ambitions, and cultural exchange, leaving a profound impact on the medieval world.”

Dr. Jonathan Phillips, Professor of Crusading History.

These expeditions were aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control, but their impact and historical context reveal a host of intriguing and unexpected elements.

The Crusades

From cultural exchanges to unexpected alliances, the Crusades were filled with surprising twists and turns.

In this article, we will explore the 10 most surprising things about the medieval Crusades, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of this pivotal period in history.

1. Unforeseen Collaboration

– Christian and Muslim forces occasionally formed alliances against common enemies, showcasing the complexity of loyalties and rivalries.

2. Role of Women

– Women played diverse roles in the Crusades, from warriors and leaders to entrepreneurs and supporters on the home front.

3. Cultural Exchange

– The Crusades facilitated the exchange of knowledge, goods, and ideas between Europe and the Middle East, fostering cultural and intellectual growth.

4. Impact on Trade

– The Crusades stimulated trade networks, introducing Europeans to new goods, technologies, and luxury items from the East.

5. Medical Advancements

– Crusaders brought back medical knowledge and practices from the Middle East, influencing the development of medical science in Europe.

6. Crusades Beyond the Holy Land

– The Crusades extended beyond the Holy Land, with campaigns in regions such as Spain, Baltic countries, and even against fellow Christians.

7. The Children’s Crusade

– A lesser-known event, the Children’s Crusade, saw thousands of young people embark on ill-fated journeys to the Holy Land.

8. Impact on Architecture

– The Crusades influenced architectural styles in Europe, with the introduction of Byzantine and Islamic design elements in castles, churches, and palaces.

9. Legacy of Religious Intolerance

– The Crusades left a lasting legacy of religious intolerance and hostility, contributing to tensions that persist in various forms today.

10. Crusade Mythology

– Over time, the Crusades acquired a mythical status, often misrepresented in popular culture and distorted historical narratives.


“The Crusades were not just about Christians versus Muslims but involved a web of alliances, rivalries, and unintended consequences that shaped the course of history in unexpected ways.”

Dr. Helen Nicholson, Historian of the Crusades.

10 Most Surprising Things About the Crusades | Great Books

“The Crusades: The Authoritative History of the War for the Holy Land” by Thomas Asbridge
A comprehensive and accessible account of the Crusades, providing insights into their causes, impact, and legacy.

“God’s Was A New History of the Crusades” by Christopher Tyerman
An engaging and in-depth exploration of the Crusades, analyzing their political, religious, and cultural dimensions.

“The Oxford Illustrated History of the Crusades” edited by Jonathan Riley-Smith
A collection of essays by leading scholars, offering a broad overview of the Crusades from multiple perspectives.

“The Crusades: The Essential Readings” edited by Thomas F. Madden
A compilation of primary sources and scholarly articles, providing a deeper understanding of the Crusades through original texts.

“The First Crusade: The Call from the East” by Peter Frankopan
Focusing on the First Crusade, this book explores the motivations, challenges, and consequences of the initial expedition.

These books offer valuable insights into the Crusades, allowing readers to delve into the intricacies and surprises of this remarkable historical period.