Gilbert of Hastings facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gilbert de Hastings |
|
|---|---|
| Bishop of Lisbon | |
| Church | Roman Catholic |
| See | Diocese of Lisbon |
| In Office | 1147–1166 |
| Predecessor | Vacant |
| Successor | Álvaro |
| Personal details | |
| Born | England |
| Died | 27 April 1166 Lisbon, Portugal |
Gilbert de Hastings (also known as Gilberto de Hastings in Portuguese) was an important English monk who lived in the 12th century. He became a leader in the Christian army during the Second Crusade. After a big battle called the Siege of Lisbon, he was chosen to be the very first Bishop of Lisbon. Before him, the position of Bishop in Lisbon had been empty for a long time, since 716, because of a Muslim invasion.
Who Was Gilbert de Hastings?
Gilbert de Hastings was from England. We don't know much about his early life or exact birth date. However, it's thought he might have been a younger son from a well-known family called the de Hastings. This family was important in England, especially in a place called Ashill in Norfolk. They were also in charge of managing the Abbey of Bury St Edmunds.
Joining the Second Crusade
The Second Crusade was a major military journey by European Christians. It happened in the middle of the 12th century. Its main goal was to take back lands in the Middle East. Many people from different countries joined this large army, including Gilbert de Hastings. He traveled with other crusaders towards the Holy Land.
The Siege of Lisbon
On their way, some crusader ships stopped in Portugal. They decided to help the Portuguese king, Afonso I, fight against the Moors (Muslim rulers) who controlled Lisbon. This battle was called the Siege of Lisbon. It was a very long and difficult fight. Gilbert de Hastings played a role in this important siege.
Lisbon's Victory and a New Leader
After several months, the Christian forces won the Siege of Lisbon in 1147. This was a huge victory for Portugal. With Lisbon now under Christian rule, a new religious leader was needed for the city. Gilbert de Hastings, who had fought bravely in the siege, was chosen for this important job. He became the first Bishop of Lisbon after the city was retaken.
Gilbert's Time as Bishop
As Bishop of Lisbon, Gilbert de Hastings helped rebuild the church and religious life in the city. He served in this role from 1147 until his death in 1166. His work was important for establishing Christian rule and organization in Lisbon after a long period of Muslim control. He died in Lisbon in 1166.
