Battle of Caldiero (1796)
Caldiero, east of Verona, Italy
What happened
Napoleon's French army, with Masséna and Augereau, attacked an Austrian army under József Alvinczi. Austria was making a third attempt to relieve the French siege of Mantua. The French attacked Austrian troops holding fortified villages at Caldiero, east of Verona. Rain and hail blew into the French soldiers' faces, making it hard to ready their muskets, and after Austrian reinforcements arrived the French withdrew into Verona at nightfall.
Why it matters
It was a rare tactical setback for Bonaparte. It came only six days after his defeat at the Second Battle of Bassano.
What came next
Bonaparte changed his plan and defeated Alvinczi at Arcole on 15–17 November 1796.
Did you know?
Bonaparte had considered retreating behind the Adda River before he decided to attack again.
Timeline
- 6 November 1796Second Battle of Bassano.
- 12 November 1796Battle of Caldiero.
- 15–17 November 1796Battle of Arcole.