1261
Michael VIII retakes Constantinople
Nicaean troops under Alexios Strategopoulos slipped into the city through an unguarded tunnel and overwhelmed the sleeping Latin garrison.
Berke Khan converts to Islam
Batu's brother, now lord of the Golden Horde, accepted Islam and turned against his cousin Hulagu of the Ilkhanate in outrage over the sack of Baghdad.
Coptic bishop reopens monasteries
In Mamluk Egypt, the patriarch of Alexandria negotiated permission to restore several Coptic monasteries in the Wadi Natrun…
First papal Golden Rose sent to a woman
Urban IV presented the papal Golden Rose, usually given to princes, to Beatrice of Savoy, queen of Charles of Anjou.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1261?
Saeculum lists 4 events from 1261. The most significant is Michael VIII retakes Constantinople: Nicaean troops under Alexios Strategopoulos slipped into the city through an unguarded tunnel and overwhelmed the sleeping Latin garrison.
What era was 1261 part of?
1261 falls within the High Middle Ages (1000-1300). Crusades, cathedrals, and the slow waking of Europe.
Which regions saw notable events in 1261?
The events from 1261 span Europe, Central Asia and Middle East.