Battles & Campaigns · 1860
Siege of Ancona
Ancona, Marche, Italy
What happened
Sardinian land and sea forces under Manfredo Fanti and Admiral Carlo Persano besieged the Papal garrison under Louis de Lamoricière. After losing at Castelfidardo, Lamoricière took refuge in the port of Ancona. Sardinian ships blockaded the harbour while troops surrounded the city. After the fort guarding the harbour mouth was destroyed, the defences collapsed and the garrison surrendered.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It secured the Marche and Umbria for Sardinia. It linked the northern kingdom with Garibaldi's conquests in the south.
What came next
King Victor Emmanuel entered Ancona on 3 October, then went south to meet Garibaldi at Teano.
Did you know?
Lamoricière slipped past Sardinian troops by coastal paths to reach Ancona after the battle.
Timeline
- 18 September 1860Battle of Castelfidardo.
- 24 September 1860The siege begins.
- 29 September 1860The garrison surrenders.
- 3 October 1860Victor Emmanuel enters Ancona.