Richard I at the Battle of Ascolan

Richard I, Coeur-de-Lion, was famously pitted against Saladin, leader of the Saracens, during the Third Crusade, 1189-92. In 1191, Saladin demolished the fort of Ascalon, but Richard swiftly rebuilt it as a primary fortress to Jaffa. Saladin then attempted to recapture Jaffa in 1192, but was thwarted by the English King's defence. The present picture depicts Richard I 'unhorsing' Saladin in this battle, a moment retold in many chivalric tales. The Crusaders, however, failed to reclaim Jerusalem, succeeding only in capturing Akko. Richard and Saladin entered a treaty whereby Ascalon's fortifications were to be torn down, and Jerusalum was to be opened for Christian pilgrims.