Battle of La Rochelle 1372 • Late Middle Ages
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Battle of La Rochelle

Late Middle Ages French victory
Historical significance:

Summary

The Castilian fleet attacks the English fleet sent to resupply La Rochelle. Skillful maneuvers, bombard fire, and close combat lead to total victory. The English navy suffers one of its greatest disasters.

Historical context

La Rochelle is besieged by the French. England attempts resupply by sea. The Franco-Castilian alliance, sealed in 1371, enables an effective naval offensive. This battle marks France's return to strength on the Atlantic.

Tactics

Castilian admiral Ambrosio Boccanegra feigned approaching the shore; at low tide, the heavily laden English ships could not maneuver. Each galley towed fire ships loaded with oil and tallow toward the English vessels stranded on the shoals.

Consequences

Ruin of the English fleet in the Channel, loss of English naval superiority for several years. French and Castilian trade routes are secured, and La Rochelle returns to French control.

Location

Place : Roadstead of La Rochelle, Atlantic coast (France)
Coordinates : 46.16°N, 1.151°W

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Defeat