THE FALL OF MOORISH SEVILLE 1023-1091: The Creation and Destruction of a Hispanic-Muslim Kingdom in the 11th Century

1-958006

Reconstructs the rise, flowering, and collapse of the Kingdom of Seville between 1023 and 1091. Rather than presenting al-Andalus as a monolithic civilization, reveals a fractured political landscape marked by shifting alliances, internal rivalries, and ideological tension. Explores the often-neglected conflicts between Muslim kingdoms, the brutal realities of taifa warfare, and the decisive intervention of the Almoravids from North Africa -- initially invited as allies, but ultimately the agents of Seville's destruction. The narrative culminates in the dramatic fall of the city and the exile of its last ruler, bringing an abrupt end to Seville's brief but intense period of power. Drawing on a wide range of primary written sources and recent archaeological discoveries including material from the palace of al-Mu'tamid, combines political, military, and cultural history. Particular attention is paid to the composition of armies, arms and equipment, tactics, and the lived experience of warfare in eleventh-century Iberia. Contains 5 black and white photos, 22 black and white illustrations, 8 color illustrations, and 7 black and white maps.