Siege of Perpignan (1642) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Siege of Perpignan
Part of the Reapers' War and the Franco-Spanish War (1635–59)
Perpignan in 1642
Date 4 November 1641 – 9 September 1642 Location Perpignan, Principality of Catalonia, present-day France Result Franco-Catalan victory
Belligerents
France  Catalonia	Spain
Commanders and leaders
Charles de La Porte	Pedro de Zúñiga
Strength
Unknown	3,000
Casualties and losses
Unknown	2,500

The Siege of Perpignan was an important event during the Reapers' War, also known as the Catalan Revolt. This conflict was part of a larger fight called the Franco-Spanish War (1635–59). A siege happens when an army surrounds a city or fort to cut off supplies and force its surrender.

The Siege of Perpignan

The city of Perpignan was a key location in the region of Roussillon. It was important for controlling the border between France and Spain. The siege showed the power struggle between these two countries.

How the Siege Began

French troops, led by Louis XIII of France, started to surround Perpignan on November 4, 1641. Their goal was to take control of the city from the Spanish. King Louis XIII even visited the siege in the spring of 1642. However, he left before the city was finally captured.

Spanish Attempts to Help

The Spanish tried twice to send help to the trapped city.

• On March 28, a Spanish army tried to reach Perpignan by land. This led to the Battle of Montmeló, but the Spanish failed to break through.
• In July, the Spanish navy tried to send help by sea. This resulted in the Battle of Barcelona, where they also failed.

These failures meant that Perpignan was completely cut off.

The City Falls

The people inside Perpignan suffered greatly. Many died from hunger because supplies could not get in. The nearby town of Cotlliure also fell to the French. Because of these problems, the Spanish governor, the Marquis de Flores Dávila, had no choice. He surrendered the city on September 9, 1642.

Only about 500 Spanish soldiers survived the siege. French troops, helped by Catalan rebels, then took over Perpignan.

What Happened After the Siege?

The fall of Perpignan had big consequences for the region.

Fort de Salses Surrenders

After Perpignan was captured, the Fort de Salses was left all alone. It had no hope of getting any help or supplies. Because of this, the fort also surrendered to the French.

Roussillon Becomes French

With Perpignan and Fort de Salses gone, the entire region of Roussillon fell into French hands. This area has remained part of France ever since. This was made official by the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659. This treaty ended the long war between France and Spain.

See also

• In Spanish: Sitio de Perpiñán (1642) para niños