Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, also known as El Cid ("the lord"), was a Castilian knight in medieval Spain. He became well known for his service in the armies of both Christian and Muslim rulers and was recognized with the honorary title of "Campeador" ("Master of the Battlefield"). The highlight of his accomplishments came in 1094, when he captured the city of Valencia from its Muslim ruler. After his death, El Cid became Spain's celebrated national hero and the protagonist of the most significant Spanish epic poem, “El Cantar de mio Cid”, which presents him as the ideal medieval knight: valiant, loyal, strong, spiritual, and fair. To this day, El Cid remains an iconic Spanish folk hero.