Battles & Campaigns · 1128
Battle of São Mamede
Guimarães, Portugal
What happened
Theresa and her ally Fernando Pérez de Traba marched with an army into the district of Braga. Afonso's forces met and defeated them near Guimarães. Both leaders were captured but were only sent out of the territory.
Why it matters
It is seen as a key step toward Portugal becoming an independent kingdom. Afonso Henriques took control of the county.
What came next
Afonso declared himself King of Portugal after Ourique in 1139, and León recognised Portugal's independence in 1143.
Did you know?
An old tower in the Guimarães city wall carries the words 'Aqui nasceu Portugal' ('Portugal was born here').
Timeline
- 24 Jun 1128Battle of São Mamede.
- 25 Jul 1139Battle of Ourique; Afonso takes the title of king.
- 1143Treaty of Zamora.
- 1179The Pope recognises Afonso as king.