Battle of Montes Claros
Near Vila Viçosa, Alentejo, Portugal
What happened
A Portuguese army under António Luís de Meneses, with Frederick Schomberg, fought a Spanish army under the Marquis of Caracena. Portugal had broken away from Spanish rule in 1640, and Spain kept trying to win it back. A Spanish army invaded and besieged the town of Vila Viçosa, and the Portuguese took up a strong line between a ridge and a forest. The Portuguese held for about seven hours, then their cavalry counterattacked and the Spanish army broke.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was the last major battle of the Portuguese Restoration War. It made sure Portugal stayed independent of Spain.
What came next
Spain made no more invasions. In 1668 Spain recognised Portugal's independence in the Treaty of Lisbon.
Did you know?
Schomberg's horse was shot from under him, and he was nearly captured.
Timeline
- 1 December 1640Revolt in Lisbon; John IV is proclaimed king.
- 8 June 1663Portuguese victory at Ameixial.
- 17 June 1665Battle of Montes Claros.
- 13 February 1668Treaty of Lisbon.