Oppas facts for kids

Oppas (died after 712) was an important person in the Visigothic Kingdom. He lived in the city of Toledo. His father was Egica, who was a king. Oppas was around during a very important time in history. This was when Muslim armies began to conquer Spain. This event is known as the Muslim conquest of Hispania.

Oppas and the Conquest of Spain

When the Muslim armies arrived, King Roderic of the Visigoths lost a big battle. This battle was called the Battle of Guadalete. After this, the Muslim armies, led by Tariq ibn Ziyad, marched towards Toledo. Oppas was in Toledo at the time. He left the city before the armies captured it.

Some historical writings say that Tariq executed many important people in Toledo. He claimed they helped Oppas escape. Historians are still trying to figure out the exact dates for these events. It seems Oppas survived for a while after Toledo was taken.

Was Oppas a King?

Some historians believe Oppas might have been a reason for problems in Spain. The Chronicle of 754 mentions "internal fury" in the country. It is possible that Oppas was chosen as king in Toledo. This might have happened by people who did not support King Roderic. It could have been before Roderic's final defeat. Or it could have been after Roderic died and before the Muslims took Toledo.

If Oppas was made king, then the nobles who were killed in Toledo might have been his supporters. These nobles were said to have "ambition for the kingdom." However, there is no strong proof for this idea.

Oppas in Legends

Over time, many stories and legends grew around Oppas. One story, from the Chronicle of Alfonso III (written much later), says Oppas was the son of King Wittiza. But this is not likely to be true because of when Wittiza was born.

Another legend says Oppas became an Archbishop of Toledo or a Bishop of Seville. These stories also claim he joined the Muslim armies. He supposedly went with them to fight against Pelagius of Asturias in a region called Asturias. This was in 718. The legend says Oppas tried to convince Pelagius to give up. But the Muslim armies were defeated in the Battle of Covadonga. Most historians believe this story is not true.

However, one old document from the late 900s does mention a bishop named Oppas in Seville. This might be where the legend came from. The Chronicle of Albelda also says a bishop Oppas was captured at Covadonga.

Oppas's Family

Later historical sources mention that Oppas had an older brother or half-brother named Sisebut. Sisebut later became a count in Coimbra. His family continued to be important. His son, Ataulf, was active around 770. His grandson, Athanaric, was active around 801–802. And his great-grandson, Teudo, was active around 805. This family line had many descendants.

See also

In Spanish: Oppas para niños