The term taifa in the history of Iberia refers to an Islamic independent city-state, region or kingdom, formed in Al-Andalus after the collapse of the Umayyad caliphate or Córdoba.

There are two periods of taifas.

Taifa kings competed among themselves, not only militarily but also with prestige. They tried to recruit the most famous poets and artisans. Since the taifas were militarily weak, they were often defeated by the northern Christian kingdoms, but since they usually lacked manpower, the capitulations stated that the taifas should pay a yearly tribute, the parias . Taifas often hired mercenaries to fight their neighbours. Even Christians like the Cid Campeador could be hired.

In two occasions, the taifas were so near to total defeat that they called North African warriors to help. The fierce Almoravids and Almohads though didn't just help but conquered the taifas.

Taifas include:

• Batalyaws (Badajoz)
• Beja
• Denia
• Granada (the last remaining one, until 1492)
• Martula (Mertola )
• Sevilla
• Silves
• Toledo
• Uhshunuba (Santa Mariya)
• Zaragoza