History Talk – Al Azraq the Moorish Warlord of the Marina Alta

by Keith Smith

Seven centuries of Moorish rule left an indelible stamp on Spain, and helped shaped its´
history, language, culture and traditions. The general history of the occupation has been
well documented and researched. Little however is known about the Moorish period in
the area around us, the Marina Alta.

In 1232 Jaime 1 of Aragon began his Reconquista of Valencia and moved south towards
Murcia. However, he encountered a strong adversary in Al Azraq who maintained control
of the high mountains of the Val DÉbo, Val de Laguar and Val Gallinera and for 40 years
conducted a war of attrition against the invading Christian forces.