The tapestries provide a sequential visual chronicle of the 1471 campaign:
: They feature detailed representations of full plate armor, brigandines, and the adarga (a heart-shaped shield adopted from Moorish cavalry). tapecarias_de_pastrana
: Commemorates the surrender of Tangier, which occurred without a direct battle after the citizens fled upon hearing of Asilah's fall. Artistic and Military Significance The tapestries provide a sequential visual chronicle of
The (Portuguese: Tapeçarias de Pastrana ) are a monumental set of four 15th-century Flemish tapestries that stand as some of the most significant works of military art in existence. Commissioned by King Afonso V of Portugal (r. 1438–1481), they commemorate his successful military campaigns in North Africa, specifically the 1471 conquest of the Moroccan cities of Asilah and Tangier . Historical Context and Commission Commissioned by King Afonso V of Portugal (r
: Each of the four cloths measures approximately 11 meters long and 4 meters tall (36 by 13 feet) and is made of wool and silk.
The tapestries are a "treasure trove" for historians, offering high-fidelity depictions of :