Treaty of Badajoz (1267) facts for kids
The Treaty of Badajoz was an important agreement signed on February 16, 1267. It took place in the city of Badajoz. This treaty was made between King Alfonso X of Castile and King Afonso III of Portugal. Its main goal was to create a lasting friendship and set clear borders between their two kingdoms.
Contents
What the Treaty Decided
This treaty helped to settle some big disagreements between Castile and Portugal. King Alfonso X of Castile gave up his claims to the Kingdom of the Algarve. He also ordered his commanders to hand over castles they held in Algarve to Portugal. Even after this, Alfonso X still used the title "King of the Algarve." This likely referred to a different area near Niebla.
Setting the Border
A key part of the treaty was defining the border. Both kings agreed that the Guadiana River would be the boundary. This river runs from Elvas and Badajoz all the way to Ayamonte on the Atlantic Ocean. This decision clearly separated the lands of Castile and Portugal.
Land Changes
Because of the new border, some towns changed hands. Portugal had to give up several towns located east of the Guadiana River. These included Aracena, Moura, Serpa, and Aroche. However, Portugal was able to keep towns north of the border like Arronches, Alegrete, and Elvas. In return, Portugal gave up Valencia de Alcántara and Marvão to Castile.
Later Agreements
The Treaty of Badajoz was a big step, but rivalry between Portugal and Castile continued. Other treaties followed this one. For example, King Denis I of Portugal and King Ferdinand IV of Castile signed an agreement in 1297. Another treaty was signed in 1339.
The 1801 Treaty
Much later, in 1801, Spain and Portugal had another conflict. Spain invaded Badajoz, and a new peace agreement was signed. This agreement was also called the Treaty of Badajoz. In this later treaty, Portugal had to give up some land, including the town of Olivença. Once again, the Guadiana River was used to mark the border between the two countries.
See also
- List of treaties
In Spanish: Tratado de Badajoz (1267) para niños
Sources
- O'Callaghan, Joseph F. A History of Medieval Spain. Cornell University Press, 1983. ISBN: 0-8014-9264-5
