Girard I of Roussillon facts for kids

Gerard I (also known as Girard or Gerardo) was a powerful leader called the count of Roussillon. He ruled this area, which is now part of France and Spain, from 1102 until 1113. Gerard was the son of Giselbert II, who was the count before him.

A Journey to the Holy Land

Gerard I was an important figure in the First Crusade. This was a major religious journey and military effort that took place a long time ago. He might have traveled with Raymond IV of Toulouse, another important leader. However, historians are not completely sure about this.

Gerard was present at some very important events during the Crusade. He was at the Siege of Antioch, which was a big battle for a city. He was also among the first people to enter Jerusalem after it was captured on July 15, 1099. This was a huge victory for the crusaders.

Ruling Roussillon

After his time in the Holy Land, Gerard I returned to Roussillon. He stayed there for about five years, from 1100 to 1105. But he was called back to the Holy Land by Raymond, who was trying to capture the city of Tripoli.

While Gerard was away, his wife, Countess Agnes, took charge of Roussillon. She managed the county in his absence.

An Unexpected End

In 1112, Raymond's successor, Bertrand of Toulouse, passed away. This meant Gerard I returned to his home county of Roussillon once more.

Not long after he came back, Gerard I died unexpectedly. The exact reasons for his death are not known. His son, Gausfred III, was too young to rule Roussillon by himself. So, Gerard's brother, Arnold Gausfred, stepped in to govern as a regent. A regent is someone who rules for a young king or count until they are old enough. Gerard also had a daughter named Beatrice, who married a man named William of Narbonne.