The Final Stages of the Portuguese Reconquista (1185–1249 CE)

The Portuguese Reconquista progresses under the successive reigns of Sancho I, Afonso II, Sancho II, and Afonso III, gradually pushing the Muslim frontier southward until Portugal reaches its modern territorial limits.

Sancho I (r. 1185–1211) and Early Southern Campaigns

As the son and heir of Afonso Henriques, Sancho I continues his father’s military campaigns, expanding Portuguese control in the Algarve:

• 1189 – Sancho captures the castle at Alvor, the city of Silves, and the castle at Albufeira.
• However, these territories are soon retaken by the Muslims, requiring future monarchs to reconquer them.

Afonso II (r. 1211–1223) and the Battle of Navas de Tolosa

Sancho I’s son, Afonso II, launches new campaigns in the Alentejo, with the support of his brother-in-law, Alfonso VIII of Castile:

• 1212 – Afonso II participates in the Battle of Navas de Tolosa, a decisive Christian victory that weakens Muslim power in Iberia.
• 1217 – He takes part in the siege and conquest of Alcácer do Sal, one of the largest strongholds in the Alentejo.

Sancho II (r. 1223–1248) and the Algarve Campaigns

Under Sancho II, the Reconquista advances into the Algarve, where major battles take place:

• 1238 – His forces defeat Muslim armies at Tavira and Cacela, further expanding Portuguese control southward.

Afonso III (r. 1248–1279) and the Final Conquest

The final stage of the Reconquista occurs under Afonso III, who:

• 1249 – Launches a campaign against the last Muslim enclave in the Algarve, capturing Faro and securing Portugal’s southern coastline.

This last battle officially completes the Portuguese Reconquista, defining the territorial boundaries of Portugal, which have remained largely unchanged ever since.