Harun of Barcelona facts for kids

Harun of Barcelona (whose name in Arabic was هارون البرشلوني) was an important leader in the city of Barcelona a long time ago. He was the last Wali of Barcelona, which means he was like a governor or ruler. He was in charge from the year 800 to 801. This was a very tough time for the city because it was under attack during the Siege of Barcelona.

Harun became the Wali after the previous leader, Sa'dun al Ruayni, was captured. Sa'dun was trying to get help from Córdoba when he was caught by the Frankish army that was surrounding Barcelona. Both the Gothic people and the Muslim people living in the city chose Harun to be their new Wali.

The Siege of Barcelona

During Harun's time as Wali, Barcelona was completely surrounded by the Frankish army. A "siege" means an army tries to take control of a city by cutting it off from the outside world. This stops food and supplies from coming in and prevents anyone from leaving or getting help.

Life Inside the Besieged City

Life inside Barcelona during the siege was very difficult. The people had no fresh food, and there was no hope of anyone coming to rescue them. The Frankish army was very strong and determined to take the city.

The Surrender of Barcelona

Because the situation was so bad, the important Gothic leaders in the city felt they had no choice. They made Harun surrender Barcelona to the Frankish leader, Louis the Pious. This happened on April 3, 801.

Barcelona Changes Hands

When Barcelona surrendered, it stopped being controlled by Muslim rulers. Instead, it became part of the "Hispanic Marches" of the Carolingian Empire. The Carolingian Empire was a very large and powerful empire in Europe at that time, led by Charlemagne and his son Louis the Pious.

The First Count of Barcelona

After the surrender, a new leader was put in charge of Barcelona. His name was Bera, and he became the very first Count of Barcelona. A "Count" was a noble who ruled a specific area for the emperor. This marked a big change in the history of Barcelona.

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