King Richard I
Known as Richard the Lionheart - ‘Coeur de Lion’ the Mighty Crusader
Famous for leading the Third Crusade to the Holy Land, but failed to recapture Jerusalem and was captured by the Duke of Austria, (Leopold V) who imprisoned him in Durnstein Castle, Austria from December 1192, until March 1193, when he was transferred to South West Germany, Trifels Castle. He became a prisoner of Henry VI, the Holy Roman Emperor, who demanded 150,000 marks for Richard’s release (today’s money 2 billion pounds). Richard was released on 4th February 1194.
Richard was criticised for the expense of the Third Crusade and his lack of time in England. Richard’s failure to recapture Jerusalem led to the Fourth Crusade
It is reported that Richard was 6 foot 5 inches tall, was an excellent soldier, strategic in his planning and very considerate towards his army. He won many battles but spent just 6 months in England during his 10-year reign.
Richard conquered Cyprus and got married in Limassol on 12th May 1191, at the Chapel of St George. He sold Cyprus to the Knights Templar. Richard had no legitimate heir, marriage was childless.
The Knights Templar established their new headquarters in London in 1184 (during Richard’s reign), they were wealthy and fierce fighters and politically influential throughout Europe – they would protect pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land (Crusades).
Richard I has been associated with the legend of Robin Hood of which there have been many films and tv productions – the outlaws of Sherwood Forest – were supporters of Richard I.
The Royal Coat of Arms – it was Richard I, who originated the English crest of a lion.
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