Battle of Altafulla facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Altafulla
Part of Peninsular War
Castle of Altafulla
Date 24 January 1812 Location Altafulla, Spain 41°9′N 1°23′E / 41.150°N 1.383°E / 41.150; 1.383 Result French victory
Belligerents
First French Empire	Kingdom of Spain
Commanders and leaders
Maurice Mathieu	Baron de Eroles
Units involved
VII Corps	Army of Catalonia
Strength
8,000	10,000
Casualties and losses
200	1,200

The Battle of Altafulla took place on January 24, 1812. It was a fight between Spanish and French soldiers. This battle was part of the Peninsular War. The Peninsular War was a big conflict during the Napoleonic Wars. These wars involved France and many other European countries.

The battle happened near Altafulla, a town in Catalonia, Spain. Altafulla is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) northeast of Tarragona.

What Happened at Altafulla?

A Spanish army division was led by Baron de Eroles. A French division was commanded by Maurice Mathieu. Eroles thought he was attacking only a small group of French soldiers. There was also a thick fog, which made it hard to see.

Because of the fog, Eroles did not realize he was facing about 8,000 French soldiers. The French army quickly defeated the Spanish forces.

Before the Battle

Just a few days earlier, on January 18, 1812, Baron de Eroles had a big victory. His 4,250 Spanish soldiers defeated a French group of 850 men. This happened at a place called Col de Balaguer. Only a few French soldiers escaped that fight.

This victory made Eroles feel very confident. He decided to attack the French again at Altafulla. But this time, things went very differently.

Who Fought and What Were the Losses?

The French forces under Maurice Mathieu included several groups of infantry soldiers. These were from different French regiments. They also had soldiers from the Duchy of Nassau.

Baron de Eroles led about 4,000 foot soldiers and 250 cavalry (soldiers on horseback). He also had two cannons.

The Spanish army suffered heavy losses in the battle. Between 600 and 2,000 Spanish soldiers were killed or wounded. They also lost their two cannons. The French army had only a few soldiers hurt.

Even after this defeat, Eroles did not give up. He later fought off another French attack on March 5.