Seventh Crusade

European history

Also known as: First Crusade of Louis IX

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July 13, 2026

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Crusades Scenes from the Seventh Crusade, 15th-century illustration.

The Seventh Crusade, led by King Louis IX of France, took place from 1248 to 1254. Louis IX, a devout and brave ruler, aimed to recapture Jerusalem, which had been lost to Muslim forces. The Crusade initially targeted Egypt, with some success in capturing Damietta. However, the campaign faced significant challenges, including internal confusion within the Muslim leadership and disease among the Crusader ranks.

Ultimately, Louis IX and many of his soldiers were captured. After paying a ransom, Louis was released and returned to France, having strengthened fortifications in the region before his departure. Despite the failure of this Crusade, Louis IX remained a symbol of Christian devotion. During this period, the Mamluks of Egypt rose to power, defeating the Mongols and significantly reducing the remaining Christian territories in the Levant. The Eighth Crusade, also led by Louis IX in 1270, ended in tragedy in North Africa with his death from disease.123

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Crusades
The Crusades of St. Louis
In June 1245, a year after the final loss of Jerusalem, Pope Innocent IV opened a great ecclesiastical council at Lyons. Although urgent appeals for help had come from the East, it is unlikely that the Crusade was uppermost in the…
Read More
In June 1245, a year after the final loss of Jerusalem, Pope Innocent IV opened a great ecclesiastical council at Lyons. Although urgent appeals for help had come from the East, it is unlikely that the Crusade was uppermost in the…
Read More