Siege of Scylla

Map of the town and castle of Scylla during the British siege, July 1806

The first siege of Scylla (Scilla) in Calabria took place from 12 to 24 July 1806 during the British expedition to Sicily to oppose the French invasion of Naples. Scylla Castle held out until 24 July when its 231-man garrison from the 23rd Light surrendered to Colonel Oswald's 2,600 soldiers. Oswald's command consisted of the 10th Foot, 21st Foot, and the Chasseurs Britanniques. The British garrisoned the fort, and intended to use the defensive position as an advanced post to the army in Sicily. However, the French retook the castle in a second siege in February 1808, and the British force was evacuated by sea.[1]

  1. ^ Smith 1998, p. 222.

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