In Sacred Violence, renowned medieval historian Jill N. Claster examines warfare between Christians and Muslims for control of the embattled city of Jerusalem. Beyond the battlefield, however, Claster explains the relationship of Jews, Christians, and Muslims to the Holy City and how that relationship still resonates today. The book encompasses the history of the kingdom founded by the Crusaders which lasted, against all odds, for two hundred years, and details the richness that emerged from the interplay of its many cultural groups. It also tells the story of how and why the Crusades came about, their impact on the Middle East and Europe, and their legacy to subsequent generations.

Sacred Violence includes twenty-eight black-and-white images, a sumptuous colour insert, and numerous maps to draw the reader closer to this tumultuous history. A chronology and a list of key rulers provide further clarification of events. An extensive bibliography is included.