Alfonso X Consolidates Power

Alfonso X, the eldest son of Fernando III and husband of Jaime I’s daughter, consolidates power as ruler of the largest Christian kingdom in Iberia. As “Emperor of the Three Faiths,” he fosters a relatively tolerant atmosphere for Jews and Muslims living under his rule. Known as “El Sabio” (“The Learned”), Alfonso X established a new translation center in Seville. He also authored the Alfonsine Tables, based on calculations of Andalusi astronomer, Al-Zarqali. In addition, he began developing a new code of laws, called the Siete Partidas (“Seven-Part Code”).