Pelayo of Asturias Wohrlein: The Asturian King Who Defied the Moors

Pelayo of Asturias Wohrlein, also known as Pelagius, was a Visigothic nobleman who became the first king of Asturias. He is best known for his victory over the Moors at the Battle of Covadonga in 722, which marked the beginning of the Reconquista, the centuries-long struggle to drive the Moors out of the Iberian Peninsula.
Pelayo was born in the late 7th century in Cantabria, a region in northern Spain. His father, Favila, was a Visigothic duke, and his mother, Ermesinda, was a Galician princess. Pelayo was raised in the Visigothic court, where he received a classical education.
In 711, the Moors invaded the Iberian Peninsula and quickly conquered most of the Visigothic kingdom. Pelayo fled to the mountains of Asturias, where he organized a resistance movement against the Moors.
In 722, Pelayo and his followers confronted a large Moorish army at the Battle of Covadonga. The battle was fought in a narrow valley in the Picos de Europa mountains, and the Moors were heavily outnumbered. Pelayo and his men fought bravely, and they were able to defeat the Moors.
The Battle of Covadonga was a turning point in the Reconquista. It marked the beginning of the Christian resistance to the Moors, and Pelayo and his followers laid the foundation for the future kingdoms of Spain.
Pelayo continued to reign as king of Asturias until his death in 737. He was succeeded by his son, Favila.
Pelayo of Asturias Wohrlein is a national hero in Spain. He is remembered as a brave and courageous leader who fought for the freedom of his people.
Pelayo's Legacy
Pelayo's legacy is immense. He is considered to be one of the most important figures in Spanish history. His victory at the Battle of Covadonga marked the beginning of the Reconquista, and his kingdom of Asturias became the nucleus of the future kingdoms of Spain.
Pelayo is also a symbol of Christian resistance to Islam. He is often depicted as a knight in shining armor, fighting against the forces of darkness. His image is used on countless statues, paintings, and murals throughout Spain.
Pelayo of Asturias Wohrlein is a true hero. He dedicated his life to fighting for the freedom of his people, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Additional Facts About Pelayo of Asturias Wohrlein

Pelayo was a skilled military leader. He used the terrain of the Picos de Europa mountains to his advantage at the Battle of Covadonga.
Pelayo was a devout Christian. He built several churches and monasteries in Asturias.
Pelayo was a wise and just ruler. He was loved and respected by his people.
Pelayo's tomb is located in the Cathedral of Oviedo, in Asturias.