Battle of Covadonga
Covadonga, Picos de Europa, Asturias, Spain
What happened
Pelagius (Pelayo) and his Asturian followers fought an Umayyad force led by Alqama. Pelagius led a small group in the northern mountains. When Alqama demanded his surrender, Pelagius refused. Alqama's troops entered a narrow valley, and the Asturians attacked from the slopes and from a cave where they had been hiding, forcing the Umayyad force to withdraw.
Why it matters
Why it matters: Tradition treats it as the founding of the Kingdom of Asturias. It is also seen as the start of the centuries-long Christian 'Reconquista' of Spain.
What came next
Pelagius's small kingdom grew stronger and became a Christian stronghold in northern Spain.
Did you know?
Pelagius is buried in the Holy Cave at Covadonga, which is now a shrine to Our Lady of Covadonga.
Timeline
- 718Pelagius is chosen as leader, according to some sources.
- 722Pelagius wins at Covadonga.
- After 722The Kingdom of Asturias grows.
- 19th centuryThe Basilica of Covadonga is built.