Le pape Urbain II prêche la première croisade à Clermont (1095)

This painting depicts Pope Urban II preaching the First Crusade at the Council of Clermont in 1095. Addressing an assembly of nobles and faithful, he calls on Western Christians to take up arms to liberate Jerusalem and aid Eastern Christians. This appeal sparked a vast military and religious movement that profoundly shaped medieval history. The scene highlights the power of the Church, capable of mobilizing thousands of men in the name of faith, and reveals the close connection between religion, politics, and warfare in Europe.