Battle of Cortenuova

The Battle of Cortenuova was fought on 27 November 1237 when Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II defeated the Lombard League.

Related Topics:
27 November - 1237 - Holy Roman Emperor - Frederick II - Lombard League

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The sources refer to 7000 - 10,000 Saracen archers, which intervened at the end of the battle - "emptying their quiver", as quoted by Pier delle Vigne - and probably saved the army from a repeat of the defeat at Legnano. This was a low point in the fortunes of the stubbornly independent city-states of northern Italy. The forces of the Lombard League were destroyed in the battle.

Related Topics:
Saracen - Pier delle Vigne - Legnano

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This was one of a number of campaigns by Frederick II against the Lombard municipalities during 1235 - 1239. These included the taking of Vicenza, the failure of the siege of Brescia and the battle of Cortenuova which established the reputation of the Emperor as a skillful strategist. He misjudged his strength, rejecting all Milanese peace overtures and insisting on unconditional surrender. It was a moment of grave historic importance when Frederick's hatred coloured his judgment and blocked all possibilities of a peaceful settlement. Milan and five other cities held out, and in October 1238 he had to raise the siege of Brescia.

Related Topics:
1235 - 1239 - Vicenza - Brescia

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The emperor then went on to invade the Papal States, and was excommunicated by Pope Gregory IX. It was a familiar experience for the former papal protégé.

Related Topics:
Papal States - Pope Gregory IX

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