Siege of Philippsburg
War of the Polish Succession · Philippsburg, Palatinate (Holy Roman Empire)
Summary
The siege of Philippsburg is the major operation of the 1734 campaign. After crossing the Rhine, the French army encircles the fortress of Philippsburg, key position on the right bank. The siege is conducted methodically but lasts more than two months. Marshal de Berwick is killed while inspecting the trenches. The final assault is launched under the Marquis d'Asfeld, and the place falls on 18 July.
Historical context
In the War of the Polish Succession (1733–1738) France supported Stanisław Leszczyński against Augustus III. Berwick, aged 64, commanded the Army of the Rhine and besieged Philippsburg, key German border stronghold defended by 7,000 Imperials under Count of Coigny.
Tactics
Berwick applied Vauban methods: parallel trenches, siege batteries, saps. On 12 June a cannonball killed him on the battlefield. Noailles continued the siege; defenders, short of ammunition, capitulated after 52 days of resistance.
Consequences
The fall of Philippsburg allows the French to threaten the heart of the Holy Roman Empire. It marks a turning point in the war, even though Stanisław will ultimately renounce Poland in exchange for the Duchy of Lorraine. Berwick's death, veteran of many wars, is a significant loss for the French army.