The Capture of Coimbra (late March 1811) was a battle of the Peninsular War that occurred when the 759-strong British and Portuguese army of Arthur Wellesley assaulted and captured the French-occupied city of Coimbra in the Beira region, defeating Urbain Moliere's 885-strong garrison with 63 losses. The British capture of Coimbra allowed for them to have a supply port closer to the front lines as well as acquiring foothold from which they could continue to drive the French invaders from Spain; British Army troops were shipped to Portugal via the port of Figueira da Foz to assist in reinforcing Wellesley's army.
Gallery[]
Portuguese cavalry charging the French militia at Coimbra.
British cavalry flanking the French.
The French and British cavalry in action.
The Portuguese cavalry slaughtering the fleeing Frenchmen.