The Battle of Aljubarrota was a significant military confrontation that took place on August 14, 1385, near the town of Aljubarrota in Portugal. It was a decisive battle during the 1383-1385 Crisis, a period of political instability and succession disputes in Portugal.
During the battle, the Portuguese forces, led by King João I and his general Nuno Álvares Pereira (later known as São Nuno de Santa Maria or Saint Nuno of Saint Mary), faced off against the larger Castilian army, led by King John I of Castile. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the Portuguese used clever defensive tactics, including digging trenches and using a stake-filled obstacle known as a "stake park," to repel the Castilian cavalry.
São Nuno de Santa Maria, a Portuguese nobleman and military leader, played a crucial role in the victory. He was later canonized as a saint for his piety and military achievements. The Battle of Aljubarrota solidified Portuguese independence and ensured the continuation of the Aviz dynasty's rule. It is considered a pivotal moment in Portuguese history.