Battle of Cutanda facts for kids
The Battle of Cutanda was a big fight that happened in June 1120. It was between the Christian armies, mainly from the Kingdom of Aragon and the Kingdom of Navarre, led by King Alfonso I the Battler, and the Muslim Almoravid army, led by General Ibrahim ibn Yusuf. The battle took place near a town called Calamocha in what is now Spain.
Quick facts for kids Battle of Cutanda |
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| Part of Battles of the Reconquista | |||||||
 Cutanda |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Almoravids |
 Kingdom of Aragon Kingdom of Navarre |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Ibrahim ibn Yusuf † | Alfonso the Battler | ||||||
Contents
What Was the Battle of Cutanda?
The Battle of Cutanda was an important event during the Reconquista. The Reconquista was a long period in history when Christian kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal) fought to take back land from Muslim rule. This battle was a major victory for the Christian forces.
Who Fought in the Battle?
On one side was King Alfonso I of Aragon, often called "the Battler." He led the combined armies of Aragon and Navarre. He also received help from William IX, Duke of Aquitaine, who sent French soldiers to join the Christian forces.
On the other side were the Almoravids. They were a powerful Muslim group from North Africa who ruled parts of Spain. Their leader, Ali ibn Yusuf, sent his general, Ibrahim ibn Yusuf, to stop the Christian armies.
Where Did It Happen?
The two armies met at a place called Cutanda. This area is close to the town of Calamocha in what is now the Teruel province of Spain.
How the Battle Unfolded
The battle was fierce and lasted for some time. The Christian forces, with their combined strength, fought bravely against the Almoravid army. The Almoravid general, Ibrahim ibn Yusuf, was killed during the fighting. This was a huge blow to his army.
The Outcome of the Battle
The Almoravid army was completely defeated. This victory was very important for the Christian kingdoms. After winning the battle, King Alfonso I was able to capture two important fortified towns: Calatayud and Daroca. These towns were strategically important and helped the Christian kingdoms expand their control.
The Battle of Cutanda showed the growing strength of the Christian kingdoms. It was a key moment in the long history of the Reconquista.
Learn More
- In Spanish: Batalla de Cutanda para niños
