Introduction by the editors

A true scholar and archaeologist, who has contributed widely and extensively to both the study and teaching of the Middle Ages. Adrian J. Boas sets an example of dedication and a multidisciplinary approach to the study of the Crusader period archaeology and the history of the Franks in the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem. In 1984, at the age of 32 and following a brief career employed as a graphic artist, Adrian was able to fulfil his long-held desire to begin academic studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Department of General History, his initial interest being modern European history. In the early years of his career, Adrian’s experience as a graphic designer facilitated him in financing his way in academic studies, now through the drawing of field plans and sections, ceramics and other finds from numerous archaeological excavations. The first volume is dedicated to studies in medieval history and the second to studies in Crusader-period archaeology.