A picture of the coat of arms of the Ibelin family crest

Eschiva Ibelin

Eschiva Ibelin inherited the Ladyship of Beirut and was a contender for Duchess of Athens. Married thrice, she mothered the future King Hugh IV of Cyprus.

A 3D reconstruction of the city of Antioch in Roman times

The bishop’s political machinations

In 1136, amidst religious and political tensions in Antioch, Bishop Ralph used his influence and deceptive tactics to marry young Princess Constance to Raymond of Poitiers, securing political alliances and reinforcing Latin church dominance over Byzantine objections.

A photo of the port of Byblos - Lebanon

Plaisance of Jebail

Countess Plaisance was an independently wealthy Lebanese Countess who inherited lands across Lebanon and Israel from her parents.

The coat of arms of the House of Poitiers

Henry of Antioch

There are few records of Henry of Antioch, also known as Henry de Poitiers. He died off the coast of Tyre, in present day Lebanon while sailing on a German ship.

The family crest for the de Lusignan family

Hugh III (The Great) of Cyprus

Hugh III adopted his mother’s family name of de Lusignan since he inherited Cyprus through her family. This marks the beginning of what historians call the second House of Lusignan.