Sack of Constantinople 1204
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On the 12th of April 1204 about 70 Crusaders gained entry to the city of Constantinople once inside they were able to knock small holes in the city walls to allow other Crusaders into the city. They managed to capture the northwest section of the city as a base from which to attack the rest of the city. The fires that they started burnt down a large part of the city leaving 15,000 homeless.1
The rest of the city fell on the following day, and Constantinople was sacked for three days. Many ancient Roman and Greek works, including the library of Constantinople, the churches and monasteries were plundered and destroyed.2
Although the actions of the crusaders was condemned by pope Innocent III, who had launched the fourth crusade, he still accepted the jewels, gold, and other valuables looted.2
- 1. The Fourth Crusade and The Sack of Constantinople. (Pimlico, 2004). pp258-280.
- 2. a. b. Stealing from the Saracens. (Hurst and Company, 2020). pp288-259.
