The Medieval Crossbow 15th Century Crossbow from the George F. Harding Collection at the Art Institute of Chicago Though used throughout Europe during the medieval period, the crossbow was invented long before. Some scholars say it was created in Greece while others argue it had its start in China, however as of yet there is no set consensus. [1] It began it's popularity in Europe during the 11th century as more castles began to be built because the crossbow could easily defend the castles inhabitants without the bowmen having to leave. [2] Crossbows could also be used in battle outside of castles and were used by both Europeans and Saracens during the crusades. [3] Anna Comnena, the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Alexius, wrote about the events of the first crusade and discusses the use of the crossbow by crusaders calling it "a bow of the barbarians" and "a devilish invention". [4] In fact the weapon was seen as so brutal that in 1139 Pope Innocen...