The Reconquista
Eight centuries of conflict, culture, and conquest that shaped medieval Spain and Europe
The Reconquista was the 781-year period during which Christian kingdoms gradually reclaimed the Iberian Peninsula from Islamic rule, beginning with the Battle of Covadonga in 722 and culminating with the Fall of Granada in 1492.
Explore The Reconquista
Discover the battles, figures, and periods that shaped 781 years of Spanish history
Battles & Events
Explore 11 decisive battles and key events from the Umayyad conquest to the fall of Granada
Historical Figures
Discover 10 legendary kings, warriors, and leaders who shaped the Reconquista
Historical Periods
Understand 5 distinct phases spanning eight centuries of history
Featured Battles
Key moments that defined the Reconquista
Battle of Covadonga
Pelayo's legendary victory that began the 781-year Reconquista and marked the first Christian success against Muslim forces
Las Navas de Tolosa
The decisive battle that broke Almohad power forever and opened the path to Christian dominance
Fall of Granada
The Catholic Monarchs complete the Reconquista by capturing the last Muslim stronghold in Spain
Legendary Figures
The kings, warriors, and leaders who shaped history
Pelayo
Founder of the Reconquista
c. 685-737El Cid
Legendary warrior hero
c. 1043-1099Ferdinand III
Saint King conqueror
1199-1252Isabella I
Catholic Monarch
1451-1504Abd al-Rahman III
Caliph of Córdoba
891-961Alfonso VI
Conqueror of Toledo
1040-1109James I
The Conqueror
1208-1276Boabdil
Last Sultan of Granada
c. 1460-1533Frequently Asked Questions
How long did the Reconquista last?
The Reconquista lasted approximately 781 years (711-1492 AD), or 770 years if counted from the Battle of Covadonga in 722 to the Fall of Granada in 1492. It was one of the longest military campaigns in history.
When did Granada fall in the Reconquista?
Granada, the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, fell on January 2, 1492, when Sultan Boabdil surrendered the city to the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, completing the Reconquista.