23rd Annual Student Research Conference
Vadum Iacob, the Story of a Crusader Frontier Castle
Mark M. Lambert
Dr. Mark Appold, Faculty Mentor
On August 29, 1179, the incomplete fortress of Vadum Iacob was overrun and razed. Void of its inhabitants and a future, the castle surrendered to time and decay. Its story and existence remained ensconced until discovered anew by Israeli archaeologists in 1993. The castle was a mighty find indeed. Beneath the overgrowth and within the walls, tools rested where they were abandoned, weapons lay where they were dropped, and skeletons slept where they were slain. There are unique idiosyncrasies to the story of Vadum Iacob. This tale involves an ambitious sultan, a leprous king, and a castle that is today one of the most significant Crusader archaeological finds. My personal visit to the site, along with the assistance of one of the head archaeologists, allows me the special privilege to share this compelling story with others.
Keywords: Crusades, Castle, Baldwin IV, Saladin, Archaeology, Israel
Topic(s):Philosophy & Religion
Medieval Studies
History
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 31-4
Location: MG 1090
Time: 10:15