Afonso I

Afonso I

King

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Quick Facts

Establishing Portugal as an independent nation
Leading successful campaigns during the Reconquista

Portugal's founding father. Won independence on the battlefield and created a nation.

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Life Journey

1109Born in Guimarães, Portugal

Afonso I, also known as Afonso Henriques, was born to Count Henry of Burgundy and Theresa of Portugal in Guimarães, a significant fortress town.

1116Begins Education in Viseu

Afonso begins his education in Viseu, where he is taught by the clergy and learns the skills necessary for a future ruler, including reading, writing, and military tactics.

1122Becomes Heir to the County of Portugal

Upon the death of his father, Count Henry of Burgundy, Afonso becomes the heir to the County of Portugal, under the regency of his mother, Theresa.

1128Rebellion Against His Mother

Afonso leads a rebellion against his mother, Theresa, and her Galician lover, Fernando Peres, to secure his rightful inheritance and control over the County of Portugal.

1139Proclaims Himself King of Portugal

After a decisive victory over the Moors at the Battle of Ourique, Afonso proclaims himself King of Portugal, marking the beginning of the Portuguese monarchy.

1143Treaty of Zamora with Castile

Afonso signs the Treaty of Zamora with Alfonso VII of Castile, recognizing the independence of Portugal and securing his title as King.

1147Conquest of Lisbon

Afonso leads a successful campaign to conquer Lisbon from the Moors, a significant victory in the Reconquista and a turning point in Portuguese history.

1150Marriage to Mafalda of Savoy

Afonso marries Mafalda of Savoy, strengthening political alliances and securing the succession of the Portuguese throne.

1157Birth of His Heir, Sancho I

Afonso and Mafalda welcome their first son, Sancho, who will later succeed Afonso as King of Portugal.

1160Continued Reconquista Campaigns

Afonso continues his military campaigns against the Moors, expanding Portuguese territory and consolidating his rule over the newly formed kingdom.

1165Battle of Valdevez

Afonso defeats Ferdinand II of León at the Battle of Valdevez, reaffirming Portuguese independence and territorial integrity.

1171Treaty of Badajoz with León

Afonso signs the Treaty of Badajoz with Ferdinand II of León, establishing peace and defining the borders between Portugal and León.

1179Papal Recognition of Portuguese Independence

Pope Alexander III issues the papal bull Manifestis Probatum, formally recognizing the independence of the Kingdom of Portugal and Afonso's title as King.

1184Final Military Campaign

Afonso leads his final military campaign, successfully defending Portuguese territory against Almohad forces, ensuring the security of the kingdom.

1185Dies in Coimbra, Portugal

Afonso I, the first King of Portugal, dies in Coimbra, leaving behind a legacy of founding and defending the Portuguese nation.

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