In which year did Tariq bin Ziyad conquer Spain?

The conquest of Spain under the leadership of Tariq bin Ziyad in Rajab, 92 Hijri (711 AD) stands as one of the most remarkable military achievements in early Islamic history. This event marked the beginning of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula, later known as al-Andalus. Tariq bin Ziyad, a courageous and strategic commander, was sent by Musa bin Nusayr, the governor of North Africa, after receiving a call for help from Count Julian, who opposed the oppressive rule of the Visigoth king Roderic. The Muslim forces crossed the Strait of Gibraltar in small numbers, but their discipline, strong faith, and brilliant strategies allowed them to defeat a much larger army.

The Battle of Guadalete, fought soon after Tariq’s arrival, proved decisive. King Roderic was killed, and his army collapsed, opening the doors for further Muslim expansion across Spain. Within a short time, major cities like Toledo, Cordoba, and Granada came under Muslim rule. Tariq bin Ziyad’s leadership, along with his famous motivational address to his troops, became a symbol of bravery in Islamic history.

The conquest brought profound changes to Europe. Under Muslim rule, Spain became a center of learning, culture, science, and architecture. Cities such as Cordoba and Granada flourished with universities, libraries, and advancements in mathematics, medicine, philosophy, and astronomy. The legacy of al-Andalus influenced European civilization for centuries, especially during the Renaissance.