Alexandria during the period of Ayyubids and Mamluks (1167-1517)

This thesis examines the history of the city of Alexandria in Egypt between the years 1167-1517. The study begins with the Ayyubids' first encounter with the city, before they came to rule Egypt, and ends with the Ottoman Conquest. Although Alexandria has always been an important city, it played a pivotal role during the Crusades. The strategic importance of the city increased shortly after the Ayyubids appeared on the stage of history, as the Crusaders directed their attention towards Egypt. Although Alexandria was always under threat owing to its location on the coast, the Crusades increased the threat. As a consequence, the defence of Alexandria became a serious national policy for the Egyptian rulers. During the Ayyubid period there was no attack against the city, except for the Norman attack in 1174, when the Crusaders turned their direction towards Damietta. Although the state policy towards Alexandria did not change during the first century of the Mamluks, the following period shows a contrary picture. In the 14th century, the state's complacency and internal conflicts weakened the city's defence. This left Alexandria unprepared for the Crusade of 1365. The Crusaders, led by the King of Cyprus, Pierre de Lusignan, rapidly conquered Alexandria, which suffered great destruction and plunder. The Crusade of the year 1365 led to important developments in the history of the city. First, Alexandria was transferred from the normal provincial administration to the administration of the niyabat al-saltana. The new system saw the appointment of higher-ranking emirs to govern the city. At the same time, the military strength of the city was increased. This high position of Alexandria in the administrative system persisted until the collapse of the state. The Crusade in 1365 was also one of the first stages in the decline of Alexandria after a glorious age. The decline that started after this date culminated in the XV century. Alexandria became the second most important city in Egypt thanks to its geographical location and the commercial wealth it generated. As a result, a strong administrative system was established and many officials served in the city. Again, the large population of the city demanded a strong judicial system. Alexandria was also a cosmopolitan city. Muslims, Christians and Jews lived together. There were also temporary foreign traders in the city. All this led to a vibrant social life in the city. Despite all its positive aspects, Alexandria shrank rapidly in the XV century. Repeated attacks by pirates, frequent disasters, the harsh trade policies of the state administration and high taxation caused the population of Alexandria to dwindle. The decline in population led to the gradual destruction of the city. The discovery of the Cape of Good Hope by the Portuguese at the end of the 15th century caused great damage to Alexandria's commerce and put the city in an even worse situation.