Massacre of the Jews of Worms

Timeline

1. 1096Jewish quarter of Worms · WormsAfter Emicho's band reached Worms, local rumors spread that Jews had poisoned the wells, and townspeople joined the crusaders in attacking the Jewish quarter. Jews who had not taken refuge in the bishop's palace were killed first; some chose suicide as martyrs, and a few were forced to convert.
2. 1096Worms · RhinelandFor eight days, crusaders and local townspeople continuously plundered Jewish households, stripping corpses and dragging them through the streets. The Bishop of Worms had tried to shelter the Jews, but the palace defenses were weak. The Jewish synagogue was destroyed in this attack.
3. 1096Bishop's palace of Worms · WormsA new wave of crusaders, together with some townspeople, stormed the bishop's palace and massacred the refugees reciting the Hallel prayer inside. About 800 to 1000 were killed, including students and teachers of the Jewish academy. Survivors were few, and the Jewish community of Worms was nearly annihilated.