The Damascus Chronicle of the Crusades: Extracted and Translated from the Chronicle of Ibn Al-Qalanisi

by Ibn al-Qalanisi, H.A.R. Gibb (Translator)

Remarkable contemporary account of early Crusades by one of Damascus' leading citizens covers events of 1097–1159. Based on both written and oral reports, colorful narrative relates every particular of life during wartime: battles, blockades, and diplomatic negotiations, plus vivid portraits of the personalities on both sides.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

368 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1100

About the author

Hamza ibn Asad abu Ya'la ibn al-Qalanisi (Arabic: ابن القلانسي‎‎) (c. 1071 – March 18, 1160) was an Arab politician and chronicler in Damascus in the 12th century.
He descended from the Banu Tamim tribe, and was among the well-educated nobility of the city of Damascus. He studied literature, theology, and law, and served as firstly a secretary in, and later the head of, the chancery of Damascus (the Diwan al-Rasa'il). He served twice as ra'is of the city, an office equivalent to mayor.
His chronicle, the Dhail or Mudhayyal Ta'rikh Dimashq (Continuation of the Chronicle of Damascus) was an extension of the chronicle of Hilal bin al-Muhassin al-Sabi', covering the years 1056 to al-Qalanisi's death in 1160. This Chronicle is one of the few contemporary accounts of the First Crusade and its immediate aftermath from the Muslim perspective, making it not only a valuable source for modern historians, but also for later 12th-century chronicles, including Ibn al-Athir.

Reviews

[Tom]

Makes me grateful for those who do the research with original sources. However, being in direct contact was a Muslim voice of the time was very enlightening.