Yaqub, Almohad Caliph

Abu Yusuf Ya'qub al-Mansur (c. 1160 - January 23, 1199), was the third Almohad caliph, succeeding his father Abu Ya'qub Yusuf. He reigned from 1184 until 1199. He died in Marrakech, Morocco. During his reign, he undertook several major projects. He built the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech and attempted to build what would have been the world's largest mosque in Rabat. However, construction on the mosque stopped after al-Mansur died. Only the beginnings of the mosque had been completed, including the Hassan Tower. Al-Mansur protected the philosopher Averroes and kept him as a favorite at court.

Related Topics:
1160 - January 23 - 1199 - Almohad - Caliph - Abu Ya'qub Yusuf - 1184 - Marrakech - Morocco - Koutoubia Mosque - Rabat - Hassan Tower - Averroes

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In the Battle of Alarcos, on July 18, 1195, he defeated Castilian King Alfonso VIII. After victory, he took the title al-Mansur Billah ("Made Victorious by God").

Related Topics:
Battle of Alarcos - July 18 - 1195 - Castilian - Alfonso VIII

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