Description

In 1116, Raymond was born to Pons, Count of Tripoli, who was a member of the French House of Toulon, and his wife Cecile of France. When Raymond was 21, his father Pons was killed in battle with the Mamelukes. Subsequently Raymond was told that Pons’ departure from the battlefield had been reported to the Mamelukes by one of the Christian groups in the area, allowing the Mamelukes to find and kill him. Acquiring his father’s title of Count of Tripoli, Raymond ferreted out the group and had them executed.

In one of many internecine wars in the Outremer, Raymond was captured by the Saracens and held for ransom. He was released when some lands were surrendered to the Saracens.

To further protect Tripoli territories, Raymond formed agreements with the Hospitallers and Templars. Hospitallers went on to build their legendary fortress Krak des Chevaliers in Raymond’s territory. Raymond felt that the agreements with the two principle military orders would protect Tripoli.

In 1152 Raymond was unexpectedly murdered by the ‘Assassins’ for unknown reasons.