Morocco Commemorates 448th Anniversary of the Glorious Battle of Wadi al-Makhazin

Morocco is commemorating the 448th anniversary of the Battle of Wadi al-Makhazin, a pivotal event in the nation's history. This historic battle, also known as the Battle of the Three Kings, took place on August 4, 1578. It is remembered as a heroic epic that symbolizes the defense of Morocco's territorial integrity and its resistance against foreign powers.

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This anniversary is an occasion to recall one of the brightest pages of national history, embodying the spirit of sacrifice, patriotism, and mobilization that the Moroccan people demonstrated in confronting foreign ambitions, as well as their firm adherence to the unity and independence of the kingdom.

The battle occurred on the banks of the Wadi al-Makhazin river during a tense period of competition among major Mediterranean powers: Portugal, Spain, and the Ottoman Empire. European forces had occupied several Atlantic ports in North Africa, including Tangier and Asilah, exploiting the prevailing conditions in Morocco. Sultan Abd al-Malik al-Saadi demonstrated strategic foresight by preparing for a decisive confrontation while simultaneously negotiating with the Portuguese King, Don Sebastian.

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The High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army is keen to commemorate this anniversary annually at the historical site of the battle, in the town of Suq al-Arbaâ, in the province of Larache, in order to preserve national memory and convey lessons to future generations.

King Sebastian's forces sailed from Lisbon towards Tangier and Asilah. Sultan Abd al-Malik then led his army to Alcazarquivir, luring Don Sebastian into the Lokos region and isolating him from his naval fleet. The Portuguese king advanced, crossing the Wadi al-Makhazin. After Moroccan forces destroyed the bridge over the river, the battle concluded with the deaths of King Don Sebastian and his ally, Muhammad al-Mutawakkil. Sultan Abd al-Malik also died during the battle, reportedly poisoned, but his death was only announced after the victory was secured.

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The commemoration of this occasion, which coincides with the celebration of the Glorious Throne Day, carries a strong symbolic meaning by highlighting the values of citizenship, patriotism, and national cohesion, and urging future generations to draw inspiration from the kingdom's rich historical and civilizational heritage.

This victory halted the expansionist ambitions of the Portuguese army, then a global colonial and military power. It solidified Morocco's position as a regional force in Africa and the Mediterranean. The High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army annually commemorates this event at the historical site in the Larache province. The commemoration, coinciding with the Glorious Throne Day, aims to highlight values of citizenship, patriotism, and national cohesion, inspiring younger generations to draw strength from Morocco's rich historical and civilizational heritage to face present and future challenges.

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The victory of Morocco in this immortal battle, also known as the Battle of the Three Kings, put an end to the expansionist ambitions of the Portuguese army, which was at the time a global colonial and military power.