Almanzor’s Victory Over Ramiro III and the Destruction of Zamora (981 CE)

After defeating his father-in-law, Galib ibn Abd al-Rahman, Almanzor consolidates his position as the de facto ruler of Al-Andalus. With his authority secured, he turns his attention northward, seeking to expand Muslim control over the Christian kingdoms of Iberia.

In 981 CE, Almanzor decisively defeats King Ramiro III of León at the Battle of Zamora, further weakening the Christian resistance. As part of his northern campaign, he captures and utterly destroys the city of Zamora, ensuring it can no longer serve as a Christian stronghold.

This victory marks the beginning of Almanzor’s relentless campaigns against the Christian north, a series of devastating raids that will culminate in the sacking of major cities like Santiago de Compostela in the years to come.