El Cid

Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar (c. 1043-1099), known as El Cid ("the Lord") and El Campeador ("the Champion"), was a legendary medieval Castilian knight born near Burgos. His remarkable military career saw him fighting for both Christian and Muslim armies, earning him respect across religious boundaries and the Arabic title as-Sayyid.

At the height of his power in the late 11th century, El Cid dominated the Levante region of the Iberian Peninsula. His greatest achievement came in 1094 when he captured Valencia from Moorish control during the Reconquista, establishing a principality he ruled until his death in 1099. His wife Jimena Díaz briefly maintained control of Valencia after his death, but the city fell back to Moorish forces in 1102.

El Cid transcended his historical role to become Spain's quintessential national hero, immortalized in the epic poem El Cantar de mio Cid. This work portrays him as the perfect medieval knight - combining strength, courage, loyalty, justice, and piety. His legacy extends beyond military accomplishments; through his daughter Cristina Rodríguez, he became grandfather to García Ramírez de Pamplona, King of Navarre. Today, El Cid remains a powerful symbol in Spanish culture, representing the ideals of medieval chivalry and heroism.