Battles & Campaigns · 1805
Battle of Dürenstein
Dürnstein, Wachau, Austria
What happened
After the fall of Ulm, Kutuzov's army retreated east along the Danube. Mortier's corps followed on the north bank, and Kutuzov lured Gazan's French division into the narrow Dürenstein area with a rumour that the Russians were retreating. Russian columns attacked from several directions, and the French escaped across the river by boat during the night.
Why it matters
Why it matters: Both sides claimed victory. Kutuzov kept his flank on the north bank safe, and French operations on the Danube paused for a time.
What came next
Austria and Russia lost at Austerlitz three weeks later, and Austria made peace at Pressburg on 26 December 1805.
Did you know?
Johann Schmitt, one of Austria's ablest staff officers, died here; his grave has never been found.
Timeline
- 20 October 1805Mack surrenders at Ulm.
- 11 November 1805Battle of Dürenstein.
- 16 November 1805Battle of Schöngrabern.
- 26 December 1805Treaty of Pressburg.