List of sieges of Constantinople
There were several sieges of Constantinople during the history of the Byzantine Empire. Two of them resulted in the capture of Constantinople from Byzantine rule: in 1204 by Crusaders, and in 1453 by the Ottoman Empire under Mehmed II.
Persian and Arab Sieges of Constantinople
Sieges by Bulgaria and the Rus'
Sieges and attacks during civil wars
Crusades
Main article:
Fourth Crusade
- The first siege by the Fourth Crusade in 1203, in which Alexius IV was able to usurp the throne after Alexius III fled to Thrace.
- The successful second siege by the Fourth Crusade in 1204, in which the Byzantines were overwhelmed and the Capital thoroughly sacked.
Nicaean sieges
- An unsuccessful attempt in 1235, by Bulgarian and Nicaean forces, to retake the city.
- A second unsuccessful siege of Constantinople and Galata, in January-April 1260.
- In 1261, a small force of Nicaean troops under Alexios Strategopoulos gained entry into the poorly defended Latin capital, ending the Latin Empire and restoring Byzantine rule to the City. Most Latin troops defending the city were absent on campaign, and the Emperor fled without putting any resistance; there was no siege.
Ottoman Sieges
See also