Archival Overview
Second Almohad Caliph, distinguished philosopher-monarch who commissioned the Giralda in Seville, assembled the greatest imperial library in the Mediterranean, and personally sponsored philosopher Averroes.
Biographical Record
Abu Yaqub Yusuf (1135–1184) succeeded his father Abd al-Mu'min in 1163. A scholar of profound intellect who was fluent in Berber and Arabic and thoroughly versed in Greek philosophy, he invited physician Ibn Tufayl and philosopher Ibn Rushd (Averroes) to his court, commissioning Averroes's immortal commentaries on Aristotle.
Yusuf made Seville the joint capital of the Almohad Empire, building the colossal Great Mosque of Seville and laying the foundations for its world-famous minaret, the Giralda. In Morocco, he constructed the monumental bridge over the Tensift river and grand city walls. He was mortally wounded during the siege of Portuguese Santarém in 1184.
Key Life Milestones
Commission of Averroes's Aristotelian Commentaries
Personally commissioned Averroes to explain Aristotle's philosophy to the Islamic world.
Foundation of the Giralda of Seville
Laid the foundation stones for the monumental minaret that became the architectural crown of Seville.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialTinmel (High Atlas), Morocco