Who was Richard the Lionheart?
Richard I, known as Richard the Lionheart, was King of England from 1189 to 1199. He was famous for his military skill and leadership in the Third Crusade, but spent only about six months of his reign in England.
Richard was born in Oxford in 1157, the son of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. He spoke French rather than English.
He became king in 1189 and soon left for the Third Crusade to recapture Jerusalem from Saladin. He won battles, including at Arsuf, but did not take Jerusalem.
Captured and ransomed
On his way home in 1192, Richard was captured in Austria and held prisoner by the Holy Roman Emperor. England raised a huge ransom to free him.
While Richard was away, his brother John tried to take power. The legends of Robin Hood are often set during this time.
Richard was killed in 1199 by a crossbow bolt while besieging a castle in France. He was buried at Fontevraud Abbey.
A statue of Richard on horseback stands outside the Houses of Parliament. His nickname reflected his reputation for courage in battle.