Crusader Castles in the Holy Land 1192-1302

Description

The debacle of the Second Crusade in 1148 caused the Crusader States to realise the necessity of developing a more cautious strategy. The original expansionist spirit largely disappeared, and the Crusader States made priorities of strengthening their existing fortifications and towns and building new castles. These structures encompassed core aspects of Western European military architecture with the integration of rapidly developing Arab and Islamic traditions. Following Fortress 21: 'Crusader Castles in the Holy Land 1097 - 1192', this book examines the design, development and defensive principles of some of the best-known Crusader fortifications and castles, including Crac des Chevaliers, Castel Blanc, Arsuf, Margat, Atlit, Montfort and Acre.

David Nicolle was born in 1944 and worked for the BBC, including the overseas broadcasting service, before he returned to university and obtained his PhD in Edinburgh. He subsequently taught at Yarmouk University in Jordan. He now devotes himself to writing and is a specialist in medieval arms and armour. He is also a frequent contributor to numerous specialist journals and international conferences. He lives in Leicestershire, UK. Adam Hook studied graphic design and began his work as an illustrator in 1983. He specialises in detailed historical reconstructions and has illustrated Osprey titles on the Aztecs, the Greeks, the American Civil War and the American Revolution. His work features in exhibitions and publications throughout the world. He lives in Sussex, UK.