Battle of Sempach
Near Sempach, canton of Lucerne, Switzerland
What happened
Swiss Confederate forces from Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden fought the army of Duke Leopold III of Austria. Duke Leopold marched his army toward the town of Sempach. The Swiss met it about 2 km from the town, holding wooded high ground. The Austrian knights got off their horses to fight on foot, the Swiss attacked from the side, and the Austrian army broke; Duke Leopold fell.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It is seen as a turning point that helped the loose Swiss alliance grow into a more united nation. It badly weakened Austrian power in the region.
What came next
An armistice was agreed in October 1386, and a longer peace with Austria followed in 1389. The town of Glarus won its independence at Näfels in 1388.
Did you know?
The Austrian knights cut the long pointed tips off their shoes so they could walk, and Swiss chroniclers said a large pile of shoe tips was found after the battle.
Timeline
- 9 July 1386The Swiss defeat the Austrians at Sempach.
- 12 October 1386An armistice is agreed.
- 1387The battle chapel at Sempach is consecrated.
- 1 April 1389A seven-year peace is made with Austria.
- 1886The battle chapel is restored.