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The Recapture of Budapest in 1686

This rare and detailed plan showing the Siege of Buda in 1686 during the Great Turkish War. The plan documents the strategic recapture of Buda from Ottoman control by the Holy League forces under the command of Emperor Leopold I.

Created to commemorate the military victory achieved on September 2, 1686, this bird's-eye view provides an intricate representation of the fortress of Buda, the surrounding fortifications, and the siege works. Pest, located across the Danube River, is marked as occupied by Bavarian forces (occupata da Bavari), reflecting the significant role played by the Bavarians in the campaign. 

The map prominently illustrates the defensive measures employed by the Holy League forces. The circumvallation—a fortified barrier of trenches and redoubts—encircles the besiegers’ positions, shielding them from potential Ottoman reinforcements. Closer to the city walls, the contravallation, consisting of progressively advancing trenches and artillery batteries, shows the attackers' strategic efforts to breach the fortress. The artillery is depicted firing relentlessly at the city's bastions, with the trajectory of cannonballs visually represented to emphasize the intensity of the bombardment. Specific features of the Ottoman fortifications, such as star-shaped bastions and defensive earthworks, are carefully detailed, underscoring the formidable nature of the fortress. 

The key highlights the precise layout of the Holy League forces. Encampments are marked with regiment names and the positions of various commanders, demonstrating the high degree of organization and coordination among the Allied armies. For example, the Bavarian and Austrian forces are clearly positioned in strategic locations to control key access points and support the siege operations. Supply lines, roads, and bridges are also detailed, providing insight into the logistical efforts required to maintain the siege for over two months. 

The recapture of Buda was a turning point in the Great Turkish War. The Holy League forces' success not only restored the city to Christian rule but also marked a critical blow to Ottoman dominance in Central Europe. This meticulously planned siege showcased the era's advancements in military engineering and the collaborative efforts of European forces united under the leadership of the Habsburgs and with the spiritual endorsement of Pope Innocent XI.   

Rarity

The map is rare on the market.

This is the first example we have offered for sale (1992-2025).