BattlefieldsSpanish landing at Loch Alsh 1719
Jacobite Risings

Spanish landing at Loch Alsh 1719

1719
Ross-shire, Scotland
Also known as: Eilean Donan landing 1719 · Spanish forces land Kintail 1719
Era
Jacobite Risings
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Ross-shire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Government garrison
Forces
Government garrison c.50–100.
VS
Victor
Jacobites / Spanish
Forces
Spanish/Jacobites c.350
Outcome
Spanish and Jacobite forces land; Eilean Donan Castle seized and garrisoned
The Battle

History & Significance

Two Spanish frigates landed 300 marines and a handful of Jacobite nobles at Loch Alsh. They seized Eilean Donan Castle as a supply base and magazine, garrisoning it with 45 Spanish soldiers and a large quantity of munitions. The castle's island position made it seem impregnable. The Jacobites then advanced inland to gather the clans. However, three Royal Navy warships subsequently appeared, bombarded Eilean Donan and destroyed it. The explosion of the powder magazine was heard for miles.

Casualties & Losses

Spanish garrison at Eilean Donan killed or captured

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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