Mohammed ben Mardanish

ruler of Murcia and Valencia

Also known as: Ibn Mardanish

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June 30, 2026

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Mohammed ben Mardanish was a ruler of Murcia and Valencia in the 12th century. He seized control of both kingdoms in 1147, during a period of instability following the decline of Almoravid rule in Spain. Ben Mardanish, who had Spanish origins, faced popular opposition in Valencia due to his alliances with Christian rulers. This led to a revolt in 1151, supported by the Almohads, who eventually took control of the region. Valencia remained under local rulers, vassals of the Almohads, until it was conquered by James I of Aragon in 1238.1

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Spain
The Almohads
Of these states, those under Ibn Mardanīsh (1147–72)—who was successful with Christian help in becoming the master of Valencia, Murcia, and Jaén and in securing Granada and Córdoba—especially stood out.
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Of these states, those under Ibn Mardanīsh (1147–72)—who was successful with Christian help in becoming the master of Valencia, Murcia, and Jaén and in securing Granada and Córdoba—especially stood out.
Read More

Valencia
…Murcian princelings, until the Valencian Ibn Mardanish seized control of both kingdoms in 1147. This prince, of Spanish origins, aroused popular opposition in Valencia by his alliances with the Christians, and in 1151 the Valencians, with Almohad support, revolted against him. The kingdom remained in the hands of local rulers,…
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…Murcian princelings, until the Valencian Ibn Mardanish seized control of both kingdoms in 1147. This prince, of Spanish origins, aroused popular opposition in Valencia by his alliances with the Christians, and in 1151 the Valencians, with Almohad support, revolted against him. The kingdom remained in the hands of local rulers,…
Read More