The Battle of Talavera
27-28 July 1809 · The Victory That Made Wellington
The Battle of Talavera, fought on 27-28 July 1809, earned Sir Arthur Wellesley his title as Viscount Wellington. British infantry repelled Marshal Victor's repeated attacks in brutal fighting, but poor cooperation with the Spanish army and French manoeuvres forced Wellington to retreat shortly afterwards.
Background
Wellington advanced into Spain alongside the Spanish army under General Cuesta. Relations between the allies were poor from the outset.
The Battle
Marshal Victor launched repeated attacks against British positions. The fighting was brutal, especially around Cerro de Medellin. British infantry again demonstrated their superiority in defensive combat.
Significance
Talavera earned Wellesley his Viscount Wellington title. However, lack of Spanish cooperation and French manoeuvres forced him to retreat shortly afterwards. The victory therefore produced little immediate strategic gain.
Where This Fits in the Peninsular War
The Battle of Talavera was fought at the opening of the campaign (1808-1809). 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