The ruler of Spain and North Africa from 1184 to 1199. After Mansur succession in 1184 (after his father's death), he directed his efforts to check the encroachments of the Portuguese and Castilians. In 1195 at the battle of Alarcos, he defeated the Castilian army of Alfonso VIII, and the following year invaded Madrid. After defeating all his enemies Mansur went into partial retirement and appointed his son Muhammad as his heir. Mansur was a great builder and some of his buildings still stand. The great Mosque of Seville and the minaret known 'the Giralda' was his achievement in 1195.