Martim Moniz facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Martim Moniz
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"Martim Moniz, in the Castle of Lisbon, dies in glory by lodging his own body in the gateway that still bears his name today", by Pereira Cão
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| Died | 1147 |
| Nationality | Portuguese |
| Occupation | Knight |
Martim Moniz (died 1147) was a brave Portuguese knight. He is famous for his heroic actions during the Siege of Lisbon in 1147.
Contents
The Brave Knight Martim Moniz
The Battle for Lisbon Castle
During the Reconquista, a long period when Christian kingdoms took back land from Moorish rule, King Afonso I of Portugal led an army to capture Lisbon. In 1147, they began the Siege of Lisbon.
Martim Moniz was a knight fighting with the Christian forces. The main goal was to take São Jorge Castle, a very strong fortress in Lisbon.
A Heroic Sacrifice
According to a famous legend, Martim Moniz showed incredible bravery during the siege. He saw the Moors, who were defending the castle, trying to close one of the main gates.
Martim Moniz quickly rushed forward. He bravely lodged his own body in the doorway, stopping the defenders from fully closing the gate. This amazing act allowed his fellow soldiers to reach the gate and secure it.
Martim Moniz died during this heroic moment. His sacrifice helped the Christian army capture the castle. In his honor, that entrance was named Porta de Martim Moniz, which means "Gate of Martim Moniz".
Honoring a Hero
Today, there are several places in Lisbon named after Martim Moniz. These monuments and parks remember his bravery.
One of Lisbon's metro stations is called Martim Moniz station. Inside the station, you can see a special picture on the walls that shows his heroic act.
Martim Moniz's Family
Martim Moniz also had a son named Pedro Martins, Lord of the Tower of Vasconcelos. Pedro Martins later became the ancestor of the important Vasconcelos family in Portugal.
