Day of Zamora facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Day of Zamora
Part of the Reconquista
The walls of and trenches at Zamora.
Date July 901 Location Zamora, Spain Result Victory for the Kingdom of Asturias
Belligerents
Kingdom of Asturias	Emirate of Córdoba
Commanders and leaders
Alfonso III of Asturias	Ahmad bin Mu'awiya   †

Model of Balborraz street, where the attackers' heads were displayed on pikes, in the Centre for the Interpretation of the Middle Ages Towns in Zamora, Spain.

The Day of Zamora (also known as Jornada del Foso de Zamora, meaning "Zamora's Trench Day") was an important battle. It happened in the city of Zamora, Spain. This battle was part of the Reconquista, a long period when Christian kingdoms in Spain fought to take back land from Muslim rule.

The battle was fought between the Christian forces of the Kingdom of Asturias. They were led by King Alfonso III. They faced Muslim forces from the Umayyad family. These forces were commanded by Ahmad Ibn Mu'awiya, also known as Ibn al-Qitt. The battle ended with a victory for the defenders of Zamora.

The Battle of Zamora

The Siege Begins

In July of 901, the troops of Ahmad Ibn Mu'awiya surrounded the city of Zamora. They quickly began to attack the city's famous walls. The people of Zamora had to defend their home.

Four Days of Fighting

The battle lasted for four intense days. The attackers tried hard to break through the defenses. But the Christian defenders fought bravely to protect their city. In the end, the defenders won the battle.

Why it's Called "Trench Day"

Old Arab history books tell us about this battle. They say that so many people died or were hurt. Because of this, the battle became known as Jornada del Foso de Zamora. This means "Zamora's Trench Day" or "Day of the Moat of Zamora." It refers to the many casualties that filled the trenches or moats around the city.

It's important not to confuse this battle with another one. The Battle of Alhandic in 939 also has a similar nickname.

Historical Accounts

Historians like Ibn Hayyan wrote about this battle. He used information from another writer, Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Razi. These accounts help us understand what happened during this important event in history.

See also

• Battle of Alhandic - Another battle with a similar nickname, which took place in 939.
• Zamora, Spain - Learn more about the city where the battle happened.
• Alfonso III of Asturias - The Christian king who led the defenders.
• Reconquista - The long historical period this battle was a part of.