Almanzor’s Sack of Coimbra and the Submission of the Counts of Portugal

As part of his northern campaigns, Almanzor continues his relentless offensive against the Christian kingdoms. In 987 CE, he captures and sacks Coimbra, a city that had been under Christian control since 904 CE. Following this devastating attack, Coimbra is said to have remained deserted for six years, underscoring the destruction inflicted by Almanzor’s forces.

Muslim Authority in Gharb al-Andalus and Its Limitations

With renewed Cordoban dominance in Gharb al-Andalus (the western part of Muslim Iberia), the Christian counts of Portugal submit to Córdoba, recognizing Muslim supremacy in the region. However, despite these military victories, the episode also highlights the limitations of Muslim rule in these remote northern territories.

Although Almanzor succeeds in enforcing submission, the Muslim authorities struggle to repopulate or directly govern the lands they reconquer. This difficulty reflects the challenging geography and the persistent resistance of local Christian communities, which will eventually reclaim these territories in the centuries to come.