Battles & Campaigns · 1710
Battle of Villaviciosa
Villaviciosa de Tajuña, Guadalajara, Spain
What happened
In the War of the Spanish Succession, Vendôme had just forced a British force to surrender at Brihuega. The two armies lined up on parallel ridges, and Spanish cavalry attacked both Allied wings. Starhemberg counterattacked, but the Allies withdrew under cover of night.
Why it matters
Why it matters: Both sides claimed victory, but the result favoured Philip V and confirmed Bourbon control of Spain. Spanish cavalry largely decided the battle.
What came next
Starhemberg retreated to Barcelona. In 1711 Philip's rival Charles left Spain to become Holy Roman Emperor, which secured the Spanish throne for Philip.
Did you know?
King Philip V himself fought with his cavalry on the right wing.
Timeline
- 8 December 1710British force surrenders at Brihuega.
- 11 December 1710Battle of Villaviciosa.
- 6 January 1711Starhemberg reaches Barcelona.
- April 1711Charles leaves Spain.