The Crusaders in Ramla
At the end of the 11th century the Crusaders broke into the land and
conquered it from the Muslums in 1099. The Crusaders came from the north,
advanced in great masses through the coastal plain towards Ramla. Before
nearing the city they camped in Lod due to the St. George church.
When the Ramla residents heard of the Crusaders cruel doings on their way
they fled the city and the Crusaders found it nearly empty from people
with enough food supply for their armed forces. From Ramla the Crusaders
moved on to Jerusalem, conquered this city as well and made it their
capital.
Ramla was an important city in the time of the Crusaders. The Christians
distorted its name and called it RAMA, RAMTIS or RAMES. A bishop
that was seated in the city, was in charge of the residents matters.
He was named "Episcopus Ramatnis" which is latin for "The bishop of Rama".
Around the year 1150, the Crusaders constructed a large glorious church
that stands till this very day. This churce is a fair example of the Crusade
architecture in the holy land. The Muslums used to invade Ramla
from time to time in order to harass its residents and to prevent traffic
to Jerusalem.
In the year 1187 the number of battles increased in Ramlas area.
Many battles were carried out by the Crusader Richard Lionheart, Englands
famous king.
Eventually the Muslums completely took over Ramla around the year 1260.
A year later in 1261 the Muslums terminated the Crusade rule also in the
coastal region passing the whole land over to the rule of the Mamluk
Muslums.
