Siege of Laodicea

The Siege of Laodicea resulted in the Byzantine capture of the Seljuq Turkish city of Laodicea in 1119.

Siege of Laodicea
Part of the Byzantine–Seljuq wars
DateSpring 1119
Location
Laodicea, Phrygia
Result Byzantine victory
Belligerents
Byzantine Empire Seljuk Sultanate of Rûm
Commanders and leaders
John II Komnenos
John Axouch		 Alp-qara
Strength
Unknown 700–800

Background

Upon ascending the throne in 1118, the Byzantine emperor John II Komnenos was faced with the continued presence of Turks in Phrygia and along the Meander river.[1][2] John planned to reconquer the city of Laodicea and led an army against it in the spring of 1119.[2][1]

Siege

When the army reached the Byzantine city of Philadelphia, John built a fortified camp and sent a force under the Grand Domestic John Axouch to attack Laodicea.[2] The city was defended by 700–800 Turks under the experienced commander Alp-qara.[2][1] Somewhat later, John's army marched on Laodicea and built fortifications around the city.[1] The city fell with little resistance.[2]

Aftermath

John appointed a garrison and restocked the city with sufficient supplies.[3] He then returned to Constantinople.[3][1]

Citations
  1. Magoulias 1984, p. 9.
  2. Brand 1976, p. 14.
  3. Brand 1976, p. 15.
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References
  • Brand, Charles M., ed. (1976). Deeds of John and Manuel Comnenus, by John Kinnamos. New York: Columbia University Press. ISBN 0-231-04080-6.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)
  • Magoulias, Harry J., ed. (1984). O City of Byzantium: Annals of Niketas Choniatēs. Detroit: Wayne State University Press. ISBN 978-0-8143-1764-8.CS1 maint: ref=harv (link)

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