1218
Mongol envoys slaughtered at Otrar
The Khwarazmian governor of Otrar massacred a Mongol trade caravan and its envoys, accusing them of espionage.
Salamanca founded as a studium generale
Alfonso IX of Leon granted a royal charter to the schools of Salamanca, converting them into a full university.
Al-Kamil becomes Ayyubid sultan of Egypt
On the death of his father al-Adil, the young sultan al-Kamil inherited Egypt at the worst possible moment, with a Crusader fleet bearing down on Damietta.
Grand Mosque of Qazvin expanded
Under Khwarazmian patronage, master craftsmen expanded the Friday mosque at Qazvin with brick muqarnas and Kufic inscriptions.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1218?
Saeculum lists 4 events from 1218. The most significant is Mongol envoys slaughtered at Otrar: The Khwarazmian governor of Otrar massacred a Mongol trade caravan and its envoys, accusing them of espionage.
What era was 1218 part of?
1218 falls within the High Middle Ages (1000-1300). Crusades, cathedrals, and the slow waking of Europe.
Which regions saw notable events in 1218?
The events from 1218 span Central Asia, Europe and Middle East.