Egyptian Mameluke general, who commanded the army that defeated the Mongolians who had invaded Palestine, at the Battle of Ein Jalut (the modern En Harod) in 1260. After halting the Mongolian army and wresting the Holy Land from the Crusaders, he initiated several projects which made an important contribution to the country's development. The threat of another Mongolian invasion led him to set up an efficient communications network, which relied on mounted messengers. The establishment of this postal system necessitated the building of roads, and the construction of bridges and waystations for rest and changing horses. The postal system thus contributed to the improvement of roads and security throughout the country. In addition to his civil engineering works, Baybars also undertook construction for religious purposes - the renovation of the Dome of the Rock, and the allocation of an annual sum for its maintenance, the renewal of the state-provided food for poor pilgrims visiting the Temple Mount, the Cave of Machpelah (Tomb of the Patriarchs), and other sites. His approach towards Jerusalem was a purely practical one; since it was a distant city with no political importance, the postal system did not reach it. He initiated the construction of a khan (inn) to the west of the city, where poor people could lodge and receive meals free of charge. |
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