AlbueraMay 16, 1811

Feinting with his right wing an attack against Albuera, Soult launched his major attack with the French left wing against the Spanish army. Despite the initial surprise, Zayas' division (formed by the best Spanish troops) held their ground against the first assault of Girard's division until the arrival of British reinforcements. The French advance was halted, and for several hours, there was a heavy fight all along the flank while gradually both sides committed their infantry reserves. A great cavalry charge made by the Polish lancers almost annihilated Colborne's brigade; however, it was not decisive and neither side was able to break the tie. Exhaustion and heavy rain brought the shooting to an end by midafternoon. Finally, the French troops gave way and withdrew protected by their cavalry superiority. The British units had also suffered heavily and the French withdrew unmolested. Next day Soult withdrew to Andalucía and Beresford resumed the siege of Badajoz, although he finally had to leave it in June with no result. The battle caused about 6.000 casualties on the Allies and between 7.000 and 8.000 on the French.