Arcola

15-17 November, 1796

Battlefield Guides for Northern Italy

A three-day battle famous for Napoleon Bonaparte grabbing a flag and personally leading an assault across the Arcola bridge.

The span was the centre of fighting as the French desperately tried to force the Austrians backwards.

On the final day, the French generals Massena and Augereau forced their way across the river and the defenders, fearful of being trapped, quickly retreated.