The Normans, a group of Norse seafarers and warriors, made their mark on Spanish history during the 11th and 12th centuries. Originating from Scandinavia, they initially gained a foothold in southern Italy and Sicily before expanding their influence across the Mediterranean. In the Iberian Peninsula, the Normans played a significant role in the Reconquista, the Christian kingdoms' centuries-long struggle against Muslim rule. Notably, they established the County of Barcelona, which became a powerful Catalan state, and participated in the conquest of Toledo, a crucial turning point in the Reconquista. While their presence in Spain was relatively brief, the Normans left a lasting impact on the region's culture and politics.
