ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Year 1271

The year 1271 marked a significant period in world history, with various events unfolding across different regions. According to the Julian calendar, which was in use at that time, January 5th fell on a Thursday.

In Europe, the High Medieval Ages of the Constitut Crusades were underway, with the Mongol Empire expanding its territories. The Holy Roman Empire and France were experiencing periods of interkingdoms, while the Byzantine Empire had Emperor Michael VIII Paleologus ruling from 1258 to 1282. In Italy, the Papal States controlled a significant portion of the Aventine peninsula.

In Asia, Kubilay Khan changed the name of his empire to "Yuan" in 1271, marking the beginning of the Yuan Dynasty in China. The Ninth Crossed Campaign was launched during this time, and notable architectural projects such as Buruciye Medresesi, Double Minareli Medrese, and Gök Medrese were completed in Sivas.

In Europe, Prince Edward's crusade against Baibars began in 1271, with the prince arriving in Acre accompanied by a fleet of 30 galleys. The siege of Krak des Chevaliers was also underway, as Mamluk forces under Sultan Baibars captured the castle from the Knights Hospitaller.

In Asia Minor, Marco Polo left Venice on September 17th at the age of 17 to set off for Asia and meet Kublai Khan in Beijing. The Mongol ruler had detached some 10,000 horsemen from Anatolia to support Prince Edward's war against Baibars.

The year also saw significant events in the Middle East. Mamluk forces continued their territorial expansion in western Syria, capturing Safita Castle built by the Knights Templar. However, they failed to capture Tripoli and were repelled on several occasions, including a naval invasion of Cyprus.

In Japan, Nichiren, a Buddhist priest, was arrested by soldiers and almost beheaded for his teachings. The same year saw Pope Gregory X succeed Clement IV as the 184th pope of the Catholic Church.

Key Figures

* Kubilay Khan (also known as Khubilai Khan), Mongol ruler who changed the name of his empire to "Yuan" in 1271.
* Baibars, Sultan of the Mamluks in Egypt and Syria, who led a successful campaign against the Crusader states