The Battle of Albuera
16 May 1811 · One of the Bloodiest Infantry Battles of the War
The Battle of Albuera, fought on 16 May 1811, was one of the bloodiest infantry battles of the Peninsular War. Marshal Beresford's Allied army, fighting in Wellington's absence, withstood a sudden French flank attack that almost destroyed the line. The battle prevented Marshal Soult from relieving the French garrison at Badajoz.
Background
Marshal Soult attempted to relieve the French garrison at Badajoz. The Allied army was commanded by Marshal Beresford in Wellington's absence.
The Battle
One of the bloodiest infantry battles of the war. A sudden French flank attack almost destroyed the Allied line. The British Fusilier Brigade suffered appalling casualties while standing under sustained French musketry, but their steadiness held the line.
Significance
The battle was tactically inconclusive but strategically prevented Soult from relieving Badajoz. It remains one of the most savage infantry engagements fought by the British Army during the Napoleonic Wars.
Where This Fits in the Peninsular War
The Battle of Albuera was fought during the middle years of the war (1810-1811). See where it sits in the full chronology of the campaign, from the first British landings in Portugal to the final battle at Toulouse, on the complete campaign guide.
Page last updated: July 2026