The actions of Zirid ruler Tamim ibn…

The actions of Zirid ruler Tamim ibn Muizz (rule 1062–1108) as a pirate in waters off the Italian peninsula, along with his involvement in Sicily fighting the Norman invasion, prompt an attack on the North African town of Mahdia by armed ships from Genoa and Pisa in northern Italy.

The attack is led by the Pisans, with military aid from Rome; one Pantaleone, a nobleman from Amalfi, is also involved, and the whole endeavor is backed by Matilda of Tuscany.

It succeeds in capturing the city, but the attackers cannot hold it.

The Zirds are forced to pay a high ransom—a sign of the growing dominance of Christian powers in the Mediterranean.

The money from the plunder will be spent on the cathedral at Pisa and to build a new church.