Contents

Lists of Illustrations

Preface

Regional Maps

Introduction

1.Historical Context: the Period of the Crusades

Setting the Stage

The First Generations

The Age of Nūr al-Dīn and Saladin

The Ayyūbid Era

Early Mamlūk Rule

West vs. East, Christians vs. Muslims?

2.Strategy of Defence: Building and Using Fortifications

Before the Crusades

Administration

Location

Tactical Use

Defenders

Refuge

Planners

3.Strategy of Attack: Overcoming the Obstacle of Relief

Early Opportunism

Relief Forces

Distraction

Truces

Rapid Attack

4.Means of Attack: Siege Weapons

Armies

Action beyond the Walls

Siege Engines

Naval Support

Deception and Negotiation

Transfer of Knowledge

5.Means of Defence: the Design of Fortifications

Provisions

Walls and Towers

Entrances

Development

Shift in Design

Active Defence

Payoff

6.Influences and Trends

Fortifications

Trends: Distribution, Success and Duration

Conclusion: the Siege of Acre, 1291

List of Sieges

Rulers and their Reigns

Glossary

Notes

Select Bibliography by Site

Bibliography