Battle of Brignais 1362 • Late Middle Ages
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Battle of Brignais

Late Middle Ages French defeat
Historical significance:

Summary

The royal army attempts to surprise the Free Companies established near Lyon. But the latter, well informed, lay an ambush. The French army is crushed. The Count of La Marche and many nobles are killed.

Historical context

After the capture of the king at Poitiers (1356), France is in crisis. The Free Companies, bands of idle mercenaries, ravage the country. This royal attempt at repression fails heavily at Brignais.

Tactics

Feigned retreat by the companies, then ambush in rugged terrain. The royal army, divided and unprepared for a surprise attack, is caught in a pincer.

Consequences

Weakening of royal prestige, multiplication of pillaging in the southeast of the kingdom. Reinforces the internal instability of an already fragile realm.

Location

Place : Brignais, near Lyon (France)
Coordinates : 45.695°N, 4.745°E

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