Battle of the Vodna River (Stefan vs. Radu the Handsome)(1473)
Background
Radu the Handsome had returned to power in Wallachia with Ottoman support after Stefan's 1471 intervention. With the Ottoman threat growing, Stefan made another attempt to install a friendly ruler.
Campaign: Stefan's Wallachian Interventions 1471–1474
Forces Engaged
The Battle
Stefan invaded Wallachia to replace the pro-Ottoman Radu the Handsome. Decisive battle on the Vodna River. Stefan captured Bucharest briefly and installed a pro-Moldavian prince.
The Battle of the Vodna River took place on 18–20 November 1473, located 45km from Bucharest, during the Wallachian campaign of Moldavian Voivode Stephen the Great, who sought to undermine the Ottoman Influence over Wallachia and bring the principality under Moldavian influence. The battle resulted in Moldavian victory and subsequent retreat of Wallachian Voivode Radu III to Bucharest, which was captured by the Moldavian forces on 23 November.
Casualties & Outcome
Moldova achieved victory over Wallachia (pro-Ottoman).
The Battle of Vodna river ended in Moldavian victory. Radu III fled to Bucharest, which was besieged by the Moldavian forces and captured on 23 November. Radu didn't attempt to muster a strong resistance and managed to slip through the Moldavian siege, taking refuge in the Ottoman fortress of Giurgiu. On 24 November, the Moldavians occupied Bucharest and installed Basarab III as a new Wallachian Voivode.
Significance & Legacy
Part of Stefan's sustained strategic effort to secure a buffer Wallachia against Ottoman pressure before the coming Ottoman storm of 1475–76.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When was the Battle of the Vodna River (Stefan vs. Radu the Handsome)?
- The Battle of the Vodna River (Stefan vs. Radu the Handsome) took place in 1473. Nov 8, 1473.
- Who won the Battle of the Vodna River (Stefan vs. Radu the Handsome)?
- The Moldova were victorious against the Wallachia (pro-Ottoman).
- What was the significance of the Battle of the Vodna River (Stefan vs. Radu the Handsome)?
- Part of Stefan's sustained strategic effort to secure a buffer Wallachia against Ottoman pressure before the coming Ottoman storm of 1475–76.