Sack of Tétouan (1399)

For the battle of the Hispano–Moroccan War, see Battle of Tétouan.

The Sack of Tétouan of 1399 was an attack led by Hugo de Mendoza to Tétouan, then controlled by the Marinid Sultanate. The objective of this attack was to put an end to their pirates, who were attacking Castilian ships after the Marinid ruler incited them to do so.

Sack of Tétouan (1399)
Part of Reconquista
Date 1399 Location Tétouan, Morocco Result Castilian victory
Belligerents
Crown of Castile	Marinid Sultanate
Commanders and leaders
Hugo de Mendoza	Unknown
Casualties and losses
Low	The entire population of the city massacred or enslaved

Background

During the late 14th century, Tétouan was known for its pirates which were constantly attacking Castilian ships. Henry III of Castile, tired of them, decided send a fleet commanded by Hugo de Mendoza to attack the city and to put an end to these pirates.

Sacking

In 1399, Hugo de Mendoza landed on the banks of the Martil and marched to Tétouan. Without encountering much resistance, he destroyed their fortifications, their port and then occupied and sacked the city. Half of the population was killed and the other half was enslaved. This attack caused the city to be abandoned for almost a century.

Bibliography

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