Battles & Campaigns · 1809
Battle of Tarvis (1809)
Tarvis, Friuli, Italy
What happened
Eugène's army was pushing north through the mountain passes into Austria. The fort at Malborghetto blocked the valley until it was taken on 17 May. Later that day the French and Italians attacked Gyulai's division near Tarvis, and it broke and fled.
Why it matters
Taking the passes let Eugène's army march into Austrian Carinthia.
What came next
Eugène occupied Villach and Klagenfurt, and Archduke John fell back to Graz. Eugène's army fought again at Sankt Michael on 25 May.
Did you know?
Digby Smith called the French claim of only 80 losses at Malborghetto 'totally unbelievable'.
Timeline
- 15 May 1809French column held up at Malborghetto fort.
- 17 May 1809Fort taken; battle at Tarvis.
- 20–21 May 1809Eugène occupies Villach and Klagenfurt.
- 25 May 1809Battle of Sankt Michael.