Battle of Montgisard
1177 · Montgisard (near Gezer, modern Israel) · World · Medieval
The young and ailing Baldwin IV personally led the Templars in a surprise attack on Saladin's careless marching column, and the Ayyubid army fled in panic.
Belligerents
Kingdom of Jerusalem
- Commanders
- Baldwin IV
- Strength
- Crusader force of a few hundred knights and infantry
Ayyubid Sultanate
- Commanders
- Saladin
- Strength
- Ayyubid army, reportedly several times the Crusaders
Background
Taking advantage of Jerusalem's weak defenses, Saladin drove deep into the kingdom and, underestimating the enemy, let his troops plunder the villages and towns along the way.
Course of the battle
- PlunderSaladin's army scattered to plunder villages and towns along the way, and its formation grew loose.
- Surprise attackBaldwin IV led the Templars in a surprise attack on the flank of his marching column.
- RoutCaught off guard, the Ayyubid army scattered, and Saladin retreated in disarray.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 1177 |
|---|---|
| Place | Montgisard (near present-day Gezer, Israel) |
| Result | The young and ailing Baldwin IV personally led the Templars in a surprise attack on Saladin's careless marching column, and the Ayyubid army fled in panic. |
| Winner | Kingdom of Jerusalem |
| Casualties | The Ayyubid army suffered fairly heavy losses, and Saladin escaped with only a small escort. |
| Territorial change | The Kingdom of Jerusalem was rescued from danger, and Saladin postponed his offensive against the kingdom. |
Impact
A rare major victory for the Crusaders; despite his frail, sickly body, Baldwin IV kept the kingdom alive.
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