ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

1277: A Year of Conquests and Revolts

In the year 1277, a common year that began on a Friday, various events unfolded across different regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. In Bulgaria, Ivaylo, a rebel leader, led an uprising against Emperor Konstantin, driving out the Mongols from Bulgarian territory by autumn.

Meanwhile, in Italy, Charles of Anjou purchased the kingdom of Jerusalem for a lifetime annuity from Mary of Antioch, marking a significant turning point in the history of the Holy Land. The division between supporters of the kings of Cyprus and Charles of Anjou led to an impasse in common policy among the authorities.

In Asia Minor, Mamluks defeated Mongols at the Battle of Elbistan, gaining control over Cappadocia. Governor Mu-in al-Din Suleyman attempted independence from the Mongols but was eventually sentenced to death for high treason after being beaten by Baybars in Anatolia. The region passed under Iran's protectorate, and Turkmen tribes gained autonomy.

In Central Asia, Mehmed I of Karaman, Bey of Cilicia, was named as a tribute to his namesake city on behalf of the Saljuqids. Sultan Baybars died poisoned in Damascus, leaving behind an extensive empire that stretched from Nubia to the Mediterranean and Libyan desert, with recognition also granted in Arabia.

The Mongols continued their conquests under Kublai Khan's leadership, attacking Mongolia and threatening Karakorum. Qaïdu led a successful campaign against the coalition of rebel Mongolian princes, aided by Bayan, who defeated them with Chinese and Korean auxiliary troops. The last Song dynasty managed to escape from Canton on a wing protected by Chiang Che-kie.

In Southeast Asia, Mongol expeditions reached Burma, occupying the passage of Bhamo and opening their way into the Irrawaddy Valley. Marco Polo embarked on his famous journey during this year, marking an important milestone in European exploration and trade with Asia.

The Battle of Pharsalus

In 1277, Michael VIII sent a Byzantine expeditionary army under John Synadenos to invade Thessaly, leading to the Battle of Pharsalus. This event highlights the ongoing struggles between the Byzantine Empire and its neighbors during this period.

The Duke of Wrocław's Kidnapping

The Duke of Wrocław, Henry IV