Córdoban Intervention in Christian Dynastic Struggles (Until 961 CE)

The Caliphate of Córdoba plays an active role in the internal dynastic conflicts of the Christian kingdoms of Iberiauntil 961 CE, using these divisions to exert influence over the northern realms.

Sancho the Fat’s Exile and Alliance with Córdoba

After the death of Ordoño III, his half-brother and successor, Sancho I "the Fat", is deposed by his cousin, Ordoño IV. Seeking to reclaim his throne, Sancho turns to his grandmother, Queen Toda of Navarre, who arranges an alliance with Caliph Abd ar-Rahman III of Córdoba.

Muslim Support and the Reconquest of Zamora and Oviedo

In exchange for ceding several castles to Córdoba, Abd ar-Rahman III provides military assistance to Sancho. With this support:

• Zamora is retaken in 959 CE.