The Moorish Offensive in Gaul (731) and the Fall of Bordeaux

In 731, Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi, the Muslim governor of Al-Andalus, launches a new Moorish offensive into Gaul, seeking to expand Umayyad control beyond the Pyrenees. His forces, well-organized and battle-hardened, push deep into Aquitaine, directly challenging the rule of Duke Odo the Great.

At the Battle of the Garonne River, the Moors decisively defeat Odo, shattering his army and opening the way for further incursions. In the aftermath of their victory, they march on Bordeaux, setting the city ablaze in a display of overwhelming force.

With Aquitaine severely weakened, Odo is left with no choice but to turn to Charles Martel for assistance—setting the stage for the decisive confrontation between the Franks and the Moors at the Battle of Tours (732).