Crusaders storming Nicaea. In May 1097; the Crusaders crossed the Bosphorus and entered the dominions of Kilij Arslan; Sultan of Iconium. Nicaea; a Seljukian garrison town; was first besieged; and the defenders offered a stubborn resistance. With the aid of the Emperor Alexius I and after a siege of about a month's duration; the Crusaders captured the town; which was immediately taken possession of by Alexius; who rewarded the Crusader princes; though at the same time causing considerable discontent by his action. Illustration for Hutchinson's History of the Nations (Hutchinson; c.1920). Note: Image has been digitally enhanced to facilitate repro.