Cyprus' role in the Crusades (1191-1310)

Cyprus, because of its geopolitical and strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean, it has been scene of many struggles. Owing to the importance of the island, the powers which control the Eastern Mediterranean and Anatolian territories have frequently attacked Cyprus. The Crusades began as a result of the council that gathered in Clermont in 1095, which is one of the most important events of the Middle Ages. The expeditions, not only has affected the western history but has also affected the history of the Eastern Mediterranean region. After Jerusalem was conquered of by Saladin in 1187, a new expedition has been prapered to the Holy Lands by Germany, France and England Kings in order to retake it. King Richard, during the time of his expedition, disembarked his troops at Cyprus and seized the administration. Thus the Latin rule was set up on the island within a short time. Cyprus under the Latin rule has begun to play more active role in the Crusades and has served as outpost for Crusaders. In this study, the process of invading the island by Richard has been evaluated using the sources of the period. The events that put forward the importance of island from 1191 to 1291 have been discussed. Besides, the military orders that defected from the Eastern Mediterranean to Cyprus, the process of the abolition of the order of the Knights Templier and its repercussions on the island have been described. Key Words: Cyprus, Crusades, Lusignan, The Eastern Mediterranean