Battle of Brissarthe

The Battle of Brissarthe was fought on 2 July 866, between the Franks and a joint Breton-Viking army near Brissarthe, Neustria. It was marked by the death of Robert the Strong, the Neustrian margrave, and Ranulf I, the Duke of Aquitaine.

The Conflict

Prelude

Robert, commander of Frankia, was assembling a large army to finally crush and subjugate the troublesome Bretons. He was joined by Ranulf, Margrave of Aquitaine, Gauzfrid Rorgonides and Hervé of Maine.
In response, Salomon , Duke of Brittany, allied with Haesten , the Danish Sea-King, launched a surprise attack.

Deployment

A rumour was spread among the Frankish forces that Salomon had taken refuge in a nearby church. Robert led a portion of his force there, hoping to end the battle and the war, however this was a ruse.

The Engagement

Haesten and his Danes appeared from the surrounding woods and during the ensuing battle, Robert was killed, Ranulf mortally wounded by an arrow, and Hervé injured.
The Breton army assaulted the Frankish lines and with the loss of their leaders, the Franks were cut to pieces.

Outcome

In 867, Charles the Bald entered negotiations with Salomon and recognised him as King of the Bretons.

Aftermath

Cotentin and Avranchin were conceded to the Breton. Salomon is recognised as legitimate King of the Bretons by the Papal Legate.
For the first time in decades, the Bretons know peace.

Vigidis at Brissarthe

Conflict Type

Battle

Battlefield Type

Land

Ending Date

2 July 866

Conflict Result

Crushing defeat for the Franks.