Monsaraz was reorganized during the Roman occupation, and was later successively occupied by the Visigoths, Arabs, Mozarabs, Jews, and, after the "Reconquista", Christians loyal to Afonso Henriques. In the 8th century, Monsaraz fell under the dominion of Arab forces who occupied the Iberian Peninsula, becoming known as "Saris" or "Sharish", and following the control of the Taifa of Badajoz (one of the more prominent Arab centres at the time). The name Monsaraz originates from the word "Xarez" or "Xerez", the Iberian transliteration of the Arabic "Saris" or "Sharish", for the Gum Rockrose ("Cistus ladanifer" L.), a plant that still today prospers in poor, dry, acidic slate-based soil that surrounds Monsaraz. The Iberian words "Xarez"/"Xerez" latter evolved to the Portuguese "Xaraz" and to the Spanish (Castilian) "Jerez" (the Spanish name for the sherry wine). The settlement therefore came to be known as Monsaraz, originating from "Monte Xaraz", i.e., fortified hill surrounded by Gum Rockroses. Its naturally prominent position, being the highest hill in the area as well as its proximity to the deep Guadiana valley, made it a location of strategic importance.