Ayyubid emirate

The Ayyubid emirate was a medieval dynasty founded by Saladin in the 12th century, centered in the Middle East and parts of North Africa. It emerged during the Crusades, notably known for its military campaigns against Western Crusaders and for unifying Egypt, Syria, and parts of the Arab world. The Ayyubids were known for their patronage of culture and architecture, building famous structures like the Citadel of Cairo. The dynasty lasted until the 13th century, when it fragmented due to internal strife and the rise of the Mamluks, marking a significant period in Islamic and Middle Eastern history.