Lepanto 1571

A detailed, illustrated account of one of the most crucial military campaigns of the Renaissance. A detailed, illustrated account of one of the most crucial military campaigns of the Renaissance. For much of the 16th century the Mediterranean was a battleground between Christians and Muslims. A decisive battle between two large galley fleets was expected to decide the fate of the entire Mediterranean basin. In October 1571, an Ottoman fleet of some 235 galleys encountered the slightly smaller Christian fleet of the Holy League. In a five hour melee the Christians inflicted a decisive defeat on the Turks. Alongside detailed maps and battlescene artwork, naval expert Angus Konstam explores the last great galley fight of all time and one of the most decisive naval battles in history.