The Nizari Assassins: Ismaili Fortresses and the Crusader Era

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the story of the Nizari Ismailis, often called the Assassins. Based in the fortresses of Alamut and Masyaf during the 11th to 13th centuries, this Shi'a sect used strategic warfare and dramatic political killings to defend their faith against the Seljuk Empire and Crusaders. Lucas explains the founding by Hasan-i Sabbah, the training of fida'i operatives, and the mythology that grew around them—including Marco Polo's 'garden of paradise' legend. They also discuss the critical but often overlooked role of women in the community and the Mongol destruction of Alamut. The episode draws on primary sources like the Sargudhasht-i Sayyidna and recent scholarship to separate fact from fantasy. #NizariIsmailis #Assassins #HasanSabbah #Alamut #Masyaf #Ismaili #Shia #Seljuk #Crusades #Hashshashin #MarcoPolo #Mongols #MedievalHistory #Fortresses #MiddleEast #History #FexingoHistory #Fexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo