The Reconquista

The Reconquista was a long struggle in Spain and Portugal that lasted nearly 800 years. It began in the 700s when Muslim armies took over most of the land. Christian kingdoms in the north slowly won the territory back. The Reconquista finally ended in 1492.

How It Started

In the year 711, Muslim armies from North Africa crossed into Spain. They quickly took control of most of the country. A small group of Christians kept their kingdoms safe in the northern mountains. Over time, these kingdoms grew stronger and began to fight back. The word Reconquista means 'reconquest' in Spanish.

The Final Victory

For hundreds of years, battles happened on and off. Kings and queens united smaller kingdoms into bigger ones. The last Muslim city was Granada in southern Spain. In 1492, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella won Granada. This ended the Reconquista for good.

Fun Facts

• The Reconquista lasted almost 800 years.
• The same year the Reconquista ended, Columbus sailed to the Americas.
• The beautiful Alhambra palace in Granada was built during Muslim rule.

Did You Know?

Ferdinand and Isabella, who finished the Reconquista, also paid for Christopher Columbus's famous voyage across the ocean.