On the territory of the Iberian Peninsula in the period of the 11th-12th centuries, i.e. around the period in which the famous El Cid lived (actually: Rodrigo Diaz de Vivat), there were several Christian monarchies, including the kingdoms of Leon, Castile and Aragon. These states, being in an alliance, but often also on their own, conducted a reconquista (Sp. reconquista), that is, they reflected the lands of the Iberian Peninsula from the hands of Muslims. In the 11th-12th centuries, it was primarily a fight against the state created by the Berber dynasty of Almoravids. Infantry played an important role in the Christian reconquest armies. Due to the high mobility of the enemy, archers and slingers played an important role in this infantry, and with time also crossbowmen. An important element was also heavy armed infantry, armed with, for example, swords and spears, chain mail, iron helmets and shields resembling Norman shields from the 10th-11th centuries. It is worth adding that in the case of Castilian troops, the army setting off on an expedition against Muslims was often divided into two parts: the azaga, which built and defended the fortified camp, and the algara, which conducted offensive operations. The infantry was mainly composed of azagi. Although the most famous battle from the Reconquista period is the Battle of Las Naval de Tolosa in 1212, which ended with the victory of Christians, it should be remembered that the Aragonese and Castilian armies were not always victorious - for example, the battles they lost may serve as an example. at Zalacą (1086) or at Fraga (nominative: Fraga) from 1134.
