Battle of Bitonto
War of the Polish Succession · Bitonto, Kingdom of Naples (Italy)
Summary
The Battle of Bitonto is a decisive victory for Franco-Spanish forces in southern Italy. Under Villars's command, the combined army attacks Austrian troops defending the town of Bitonto. After intense fighting, the Austrians are defeated and forced to withdraw, allowing the Bourbons to consolidate their control over the Kingdom of Naples.
Historical context
On 25 May 1734, during the War of the Polish Succession, 14,000 Spaniards commanded by General Montemar faced 10,000 Austrians entrenched south of Bitonto, on the Lama stream. Charles of Bourbon entered Naples on 7 May; this battle opened the conquest of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.
Tactics
Classical pitched battles, combined use of infantry and cavalry to break enemy lines, artillery positioned to support assaults, enveloping manoeuvres exploiting weaknesses in Austrian defenses.
Consequences
The Spanish victory of 25 May 1734 opened the way to the conquest of the kingdom of Naples: the Austrians lost 15 flags, 24 standards, and 23 guns, along with thousands of prisoners. Charles III was made Duke of Bitonto; possession of the Two Sicilies was confirmed by the Treaty of Vienna in 1738.