Afonso I of Portugal
King of Portugal and first monarch
Born
1109
916 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1185
839 years ago — 76 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Portugal
Links & References
First monarch of Portugal, Afonso I ruled from 1139 to 1185. Afonso established the independence of Portugal from the Kingdom of León, leading a series of military campaigns against Muslim territories in the Iberian Peninsula. Significant victories included the capture of Lisbon in 1147 during the Second Crusade, which solidified his power. Afonso's reign expanded Portuguese territory and strengthened the Christian presence in the region. His efforts in governance laid the foundations for the future development of Portugal as a nation-state. He was recognized as the first King of Portugal by Pope Alexander III in 1179, marking a pivotal moment in Portuguese history.
Established the Kingdom of Portugal in 1139
Captured Lisbon in 1147
Secured recognition as King from Pope Alexander III in 1179
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