Primary Sources
Explore original historical documents, chronicles, and writings from the Reconquista period (711-1492 AD)
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Chronicle of Alfonso III
In the era 749 [711 AD], the Saracens entered Spain... Pelayo, son of Duke Fafila, taking refuge in the mountain called Auseva with three hundred men, began the restoration of Spain and the liberation of the Christians.
Cantar de Mio Cid
De los sos ojos tan fuertemientre llorando, tornava la cabeça e estávalos catando... (From his eyes, weeping so strongly, he turned his head and was looking at them...)
Treaty of Tudilén
Agreement between the Kingdom of Aragon and Castile dividing future conquests of Muslim territories, with Aragon taking eastern lands and Castile taking western regions.
Chronicle of Morea
Describing the deeds of the Franks and their conquest of the Morea [Peloponnese], and how they conquered the land of Romania.
Letter of Pope Urban II
Let those who have been accustomed unjustly to wage private warfare against the faithful now go against the infidels and end with victory this war which should have been begun long ago.
Chronicle of Ibn Hayyan
Detailed accounts of the Caliphate of Córdoba and the Taifa kingdoms, describing political intrigue, cultural achievements, and military conflicts from a Muslim perspective.
Siete Partidas
Comprehensive legal code covering everything from kingship to family law, reflecting Christian values while incorporating Islamic and Jewish legal traditions.
Granada Capitulation Treaty
Terms guaranteeing Muslims religious freedom, property rights, and protection under Christian rule. Most terms were later violated.
Alhambra Decree
Edict ordering the expulsion of all practicing Jews from Spain within four months, unless they converted to Christianity.
Chronicle of the Moor Rasis
Geographical and historical description of Al-Andalus, detailing cities, resources, and the splendor of Muslim Spain.
Poema de Fernán González
Epic poem celebrating Count Fernán González of Castile and the independence of Castile from León.
De expugnatione Lyxbonensi
Eyewitness account of the Siege of Lisbon during the Second Crusade, describing the conquest of the city from the Moors.
Using Primary Sources
- • Context is key: Consider the author's perspective, audience, and historical circumstances
- • Compare sources: Cross-reference multiple sources to get a fuller picture
- • Bias awareness: All sources have bias - chronicles often served propaganda purposes
- • Translation matters: Original meaning can shift through translation and interpretation
- • Gaps in record: Many voices (women, common people, minorities) are underrepresented