Siege of Almeida (1762) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Siege of Almeida
Part of the Spanish invasion of Portugal
The layout of the Fortress of Almeida
Date August 1762 Location Almeida, Portugal Result Spanish victory
Belligerents
Spain	Portugal
Commanders and leaders
Pedro de Bolea	Unknown
Strength
Unknown	Unknown
Casualties and losses
Unknown	Unknown

The Siege of Almeida was an important event that happened in August 1762. During this time, a Spanish army surrounded and captured the city of Almeida in Portugal. The city was defended by Portuguese soldiers. This event was part of a larger conflict called the Seven Years' War.

The Spanish army, led by the Count of Aranda, took Almeida on August 25. This capture was a key part of Spain's plan to invade Portugal.

Why the Siege Happened

The capture of Almeida was part of a big plan by Spain and France to take over Portugal. The Seven Years' War was happening across Europe, and Portugal was allied with Great Britain. Spain and France wanted to weaken Britain and its allies.

Two Main Attack Routes

The Spanish army attacked Portugal from two main directions:

• One group came from Galicia in the north of Spain. They crossed the Douro River and aimed towards the city of Porto.
• Another group, the southern force, crossed the border near Ciudad Rodrigo. This group moved towards Almeida, which was a very important fortress in Portugal.

The Battle for Almeida

The Spanish army surrounded Almeida and began their attack. The siege lasted for nine days. After this time, the Portuguese defenders could no longer hold out, and the Spanish army captured the city.

After the Capture

Even though Almeida was taken, the Spanish army's advance into Portugal did not go as planned. About 8,000 British troops arrived to help Portugal. They also managed to disrupt the Spanish supply lines at the Battle of Valencia de Alcántara. This made it harder for the Spanish to continue their attack.

Almeida remained under Spanish control for a while. However, it was the only major fortress they held by the end of the war.

What Happened Next

After the war ended, the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763. This treaty helped to end the Seven Years' War. As part of the agreement, Almeida was given back to Portugal. In return, Spain got back Havana and Manila from the British.

See also

In Spanish: Sitio de Almeida (1762) para niños

• Great Britain in the Seven Years War
• Spanish invasion of Portugal (1762)