Corfu Island Liberation 1798. Greece

It is the opinion that three white stripes on the blue shaped sailor collar - in honor of the three great victories of the Russian fleet: during Ganguhe, Cesma and Sinop. In fact, it is just a beautiful legend, since our fleet had much more victories in his asset. And in particular, the sea winning battle when taking Corfu. After all, even great commander Alexander Suvorov, who knew that in military battles, giving an assessment of this battle, exclaimed: "Hurray to the Russian fleet! Why did I not be at least Michman at Corfu? "By the end of the 90s of the XVIII century, Corfu, who considered the pearl in the Necklace of the Ionic Islands of Greece, for a long time was in the siege of the French. This allowed them to spread their influence not only on the Balkans, but also to Egypt, Small Asia And the Black Sea possessions of Russia. A similar course of events did not like many countries, which pushed Turkey, Russia and England to unite in the struggle against the French expansion. And, at the direction of the Russian emperor Paul, in the fall of 1798 for the liberation of the Greek islands. The Turks immediately and unconditionally recognized the primacy of the Russian admiral, because they knew about Ushak-Pasha (so they called it) not at the break. He brought horror on them with his victories on the Black Sea with a tender, Fidonisi, Tamani, and especially at Cape Kaliacria on the territory of today's Bulgaria (subsequently, Bulgarians will put a monument to the great fleet). A group of Turkish ships attached to the squadron, headed by Vice Admiral Kadyr-Bay.
During October, the squadron with battles alternately took eight fortresses on the Greek Islands in the Ionian Sea. There was one - Corfu. One but what! Even today, when they fall into her stalled rocks in the rocks, go through deserted bastions, dull long tunnels And transitions, look into the deep wells, its power is felt. Then the fortress was absolutely impregnable from sushi; As for the sea - for the military tactics of those years, such structures were not taken at all. Nearby there was another small island of Vido (Ushakov called him "the key from Corfu"), who was also in the power of the French and was also strengthened and armed to the teeth. In two fortresses of the Corfa himself, the French garrison numbered about three thousand soldiers and more than 650 guns. In addition, two cannon ships with a total of trunks were stood on the inner raid on the approaches to the island - 124, plus - three ships class smaller and four more auxiliary vessels. It was impossible to go through such a powerful defense "in the forehead", so Ushakov decided to block the island of the detachment of his ships. At the same time, the task, he formulated clearly: "With all sorts of communication with an island, stop ...
Despite the tremendous difficulties - the cold winter and the lack of proper supply, for which Turkey answered, our sailors managed to organize a dense blockade of the island, which lasted almost four months. The French garrison was actually deprived of the opportunity to receive help from the outside. And in order to prevent themselves the provisions from the robbery of the local population, a small tenant from among Russian sailors was planted on Corfu and two artillery batteries were built in his support. Throughout the time of the blockade and on land, and at sea almost constantly touched the clashes between our and French soldiers. The fortress was assumed together, but the Turkish command was delayed to send his landing. Contrary to the obligations to fully provide a squadron, Turkish "partners" practically thoroughly from this case. Ushakov did not get necessary for siege ground Forces Neither artillery, nor ammunition. Turkish sailors also refused to participate in heavy siege works, and Kadyr-Bay, not wanting to risk their ships, tried to refrain from participating in combat clasions. Especially on this, Ushakov continued to prepare for the offensive. Sailors learned to overcome various obstacles in large quantities They made stairs, worked out signals for communication between ships and landing. The plan of the commander provided for the application of simultaneous impact on the fortified positions of the French in Vido and Corfu. The assault began on March 2. The signal served two cannon shots from the flagship ship. It was a team not only for ships to open fire and starve anchor, but also a signal for island art banks start the shelling of French forts. On a volley from the ship's guns, both islands responded with powerful fires of their coastal batteries. However, this did not stop our ships, which in a small move went to the island, covering him with a semicircle. The chapter was the flagship, which was the commander.
When the intensity of fire in the coastal batteries decreased, Ushakov ordered the boat into the water for delivery to the Corfu of the landing. In a short time, almost 2,200 people were planted on the island. In order, by the time, the French had already stopped resistance and all dominant heights were in the hands of Russians. However, the French command before the latter was confident that Russian would not be able to take the fortified forts of Corfu, the approaches to which were mined. They did not assume that the Russian sailors will find and safe aisles (will show civilians) and there will be sinking, being in the defensive Rips of the French. By evening, the eagle resistance of the enemy was broken and our paratroopers were completely mastered the island.
The act on the surrender of the fortress was signed the next day - March 3, which the Russian emperor was notified immediately. With the fall of Corfu, the liberation of the ionic islands was completed. The French have defeated in one of the most important strategic areas of the Mediterranean. But in the biggest winnings there was a population of the islands, which was hotly thanked Russian sailors for liberation and for acquired national independence. For this victory, Ushakov, who did not lose any ship in battle, was produced in Admirals.

In March 1799, the Russian squadron under the start of Fedor Ushakov took the fortress of Corfu in the Mediterranean Sea. The decisive actions of the Great Flotoder allowed to take the considered an impregnable fortress with minimal losses. When storming Corfu, the sustained opinion of contemporaries was refuted - military specialists, that sea fortress can only be taken from sushi, and the fleet only carries out blockade. Ushakov offered a new solution: a strong shelling of shore fortifications of ship artillery, suppressing coastal batteries with the help of the fleet and landing of the landing.

Sturm View

In early 1799, the position of the Black Sea squadron in Corfu has improved somewhat. Profit from Sevastopol New ships Council Admiral P. V. Pesoshkin (74-gun Linear ships "St. Michael" and "Simeon and Anna"). Ships arrived, who were previously sent to the direction of St. Petersburg to perform other tasks. Ushakova has now had 12 linear ships and 11 frigates. Turkish authorities finally sent food. Russian sailors erected two batteries on Corfu: Fort "San Salvador" (southern battery) and Mont-Oliveco Hill (Northern Battery). It is from these sites that will storm the enemy fortress on Corfu. Turkish auxiliary troops arrived - more than 4 thousand soldiers. About 2 thousand people put the Greeks rebels. Ushakov decided to move from the blockade to the decisive assault.

On the military council on February 17, 1799 in the Russian flagship "St. Paul "was decided to first apply on the island of Vido, which was a key position in Corfu. For the attack of enemy positions, all the ships of the squadron were distinguished on the specio, the commanders of each ship received positions. Ship artillery was supposed to suppress French batteries on the island, then landed paratroopers for the final defeat of the enemy. At the same time, the landing detachments on the island of Corfu were to attack the advanced forts of the enemy fortress - Fort Abraham, St. Rock and Salvador. The battle plan was approved by most of the ship's commanders, only the Turks expressed doubt that the "stone the stone would not try." Turkish commanders calmed down the fact that the Russian ships will go in the first line, Turkish behind.

Storm about. Vido, where about 800 French was defended under the command of General Pivron, began in the morning of February 18 (March 1) of 1799. At the same time, the Russian batteries on Corfu opened fire on enemy forts. The cramps of the escorder in accordance with the operation plan were shot with anchors and put forward in the position of the island of Vido. Three frigates were first put forward, they began to approach the northern tip of the island, where the first French battery was located. The French saw the movement of Russian ships and as soon as they approached the distance of the artillery shot, opened fire. French artilleryrs were well protected by stone parapets and earth shafts. The French were confident that their batteries would easily stand the attack from the sea. Despite the enemy fire, the frigates quickly walked forward, and soon the fire was also opened in French positions.

Meanwhile, the Basic Fleet Forces were suitable. The flagship "Pavel" went ahead. At 8 o'clock 45 minutes he approached the first battery of the enemy and opened fire on the enemy from the go. The French focused fire on the Russian flagship. Enemy shells often flew over him, the ship received several damage. However, despite the French fire, Paul was steadily at the head of the squadron, submitting an example to everyone else. "Pavel" reached the second battery and focused fire on it. Ushakov tried to close up to the shore as close as possible to use the tools of all calibers. The positions of the French sweat the booth. Next to the flagship was taken by the positions of the linear ships "Simeon and Anna" under the start of the captain of the 1st rank of K. S. Leontovich and "Maria Magdalin" of the captain of the 1st rank of G. A. Timchenko. Further, closer to the northeastern Cape Islands took the position of the Mikhail ship under the post of I. Ya. Salanova, who fired a third enemy battery. To the left of it is located a linear ship "Zahariya and Elizabeth Captain I. A. Selivacheva and the frigate" Grigory "I. A. Shostok. They led the fire on the fourth battery of the enemy. The Linear Ship "The Epiphany of the Lord" under the start of A. P. Aleksiano did not anchor, all the time was under the sail and she fired on enemy fortifications.

Source: War of Russia as part of the second coalition against France in 1798-1800. Korfu's fortress assault on February 18, 1799. Marine Atlas of the USSR Ministry of Defense. Volume III. Military historical. Part one

Support for French garrison tried to render French ships - Linear ship "Leandr" and Fregat "Labrun". They defended the island from the east. However, Russian Admiral has provided such a step of the enemy and allocated in advance the linear ship "Peter" from the squadron under the post of D. N. Senyavin and the Frigate "Navarchy" N. D. Winovich. Being under the sail, Russian ships led a stubborn shootout with enemy ships and fifth batteries of the French. In addition, they were supported by a linear ship "Epiphany", which also began to fire the French ships and the fifth battery. As a result, French ships were severely damaged, especially Leandr. I barely holding a path, the enemy linear ship left a combat position and left under the protection of guns Corfu.

After 2 hours of combat, the French drown. Vino Island, surrounded by Russian ships from three sides, was subjected to an incessant shelling. With each ship's volley, there were more and more killed and wounded, fell out of the order of cannons. By 10 o'clock, the fire of French batteries was noticeably weakened. The French artillerymen began to throw their positions and run deep into the island.

Ushakov carefully watched the battle. As soon as he saw that the French had weakened the fire, the order was given to the beginning of the landing of the landing units. Ship artillery made his job, cleared the road to the landing. Now it was necessary to complete the defeat of the enemy. The landing groups on the barcases and boats moved to the shore. The first landing group was planted between the second and third French batteries. In this place, the Russian fleet inflicted the enemy maximum destruction. The second landing squad was planted between the third and fourth batteries, then the landing was landed at the first battery. A total of about 1,500 Russian soldiers and sailors and more than 600 people of the Turkish-Albanian auxiliary detachment were landed on the shore.

All new ships approached the shore, laid paratroopers, guns. Step by step, the Russian-Turkish landing began to close the enemy. The French were well prepared for the defense of the island of Vido. Anti-defense defense was equipped: the coast arranged earthen shafts, stones and logs, wolf pits, and at the approaches to the shore, the booms were built, which prevented the approach of small rowing ships. The French arrows led fire on suitable boats sitting in Russian sailors. However, the Frenchmen resisted the French, Russian paratroopers overcame all obstacles and quickly crowded the enemy. Capturing a bridgehead, landing detachments continued to move. They attacked enemy batteries that were the main nodes of French defense. The French, already demoralized by ships of the ship artillery and a successful landing of the landing, could not stand. The third battery was first, then the Russian flag was raised over the strongest second battery. Several French ships standing from about. Vios were captured.

The remains of the French garrison fled on the south side of the island and tried to escape on rowing courts. The part was able to escape, the Russian ships "Peter", "Epiphany" and "Navarchius" prevented others. Around noon, the Russian flag raised over the first battery. The resistance of the French was finally broken. As a result of this brutal contraction, 200 French was killed, 420 people led by the commandant Pivron gave up, about 150 people were able to escape at Corfu. The losses of Russian troops amounted to 31 people killed and 100 wounded. Turks and Albanians lost 180 people killed and wounded.

Corfu Capitulation

The fall of the island of Vioso predetermined and passing Corfu. Russians captured a key position. For some time, the French were still defended, hoping that the enemy would not be able to capture advanced forts - Abraham, St. Roca and Salvador. When the main Russian forces stormed the strengthening of Vido, a fierce fight also began on Corfu. Russian batteries from the morning later the continuous shelling of enemy positions. And the Russian ships fired an old and new fortress.

Soon the landing detachments on Corfu came out of their fortifications and began the attack of advanced Fords of the French fortress. The french approaches to them mined, but with the help of local residents, the mines went around. The fight for Fort Salvador, but the first attack the French beat off. Then reinforcements were sent from the squadron ships. With the arrival of new forces assault enemy positions resumed. Russian sailors attacked Fort St. Roca, and despite the strong rifle fire, descended in the ditch and began to put stairs. The French were broken, they rushed the guns, destroyed the powder reserves fled to El Salvador. Russian volunteers on the enemy's shoulders broke into this French fortification. The opponent fled, did not even have time to rope guns. Soon it was captured and the strengthening of St. Abraham. As a result, despite the fierce resistance of the French, all three advanced forts were captured. Enemy soldiers fled behind the fortress wall. By evening, the fight. Allied losses amounted to about 298 people killed and wounded, of which 130 Russians and 168 Turks and Albanians ..

French command, having lost in one day the battery of the island of Vido and advanced Forts Corfu, decided that further resistance does not make sense. Early in the morning of March 2 (February 19) of 1799, an adjutant of the French commander arrived on the Ushakov ship, which was conveyed by the request of Saczo about the truce. Russian Admiral suggested in 24 hours to pass the fortress. Soon the French reported that they agree to the capitulation. March 3 (February 20), 1799, the act of surrender was signed. The capitulation was honorable. The French got the right to leave Corfu with the promise not to fight for 18 months.

RESULTS

Two days later, the French garrison (over 2900 people) came out of the fortress and folded. Ushakov was transferred to the keys to Corfu and French banners. About 20 combat and auxiliary vessels became Russian trophies, including the Labryun linear ship, Labrun, Brig, the bombard, three brigantines, etc. On the walls and the arsenals of the fortress were captured by 629 guns, 4 thousand guns, More than 100 thousand nuclei and bombs, more than half a million ammounion, as well as a large number of different property and the provincial.

The brilliant victory of Russian weapons at Corfu caused a large response in Europe, where they carefully follow the events in the Ionian Islands area. In the European capitals did not expect such a quick and decisive victory of Russian weapons. The main blow to the French fortress was applied by the sea, which was the innovation in the theory and practice of the naval art of the time. The victorious assault of Corfu denied the theoretical constructions of Western Flotovodians about what you can't get up above the strong seaside fortress by the forces of only the fleet. It was previously thought that it is impossible to attack the fortress from the sea. The French admitted that they never thought that they could begin with alone ships to begin in impregnable bastions and powerful batteries of Corfu and Vido. Ushakov applied ship artillery for hacking enemy defense. Also, great attention was paid to the actions of the marines, the organization of the landing.

For this brilliant assault, the Russian sovereign Pavel first produced Ushakov to Admirals and awarded the diamond signs of the Order of St. Alexander Nevsky, the Neapolitan King noted the Order of St. Yanuaria of the 1st degree, and the Ottoman Sultan - Chelnyk (decoration for turban in the form of Sultan, soaked with precious stones), Sign the difference between Turkey.

In 1800, Russia and Turkey created the Republic of Seven Islands on the liberated territory, under the protectorate of two empires. The island republic has become the basis of the Russian Fleet. After the Tilzite world of 1807, the control over the ionic islands returned the French. In the future, England has installed its control over the islands.

In the very Mediterranean Sea, Ushakov continued a victorious campaign. Russian sailors won a number of victories in Italy. However, the successes of the Russian fleet in the Mediterranean, as well as the victory of the army of A. Suvorov in Italy, did not bring serious benefits of Russia. Because of the treacherous policies of "partners" in war with France - Austria and England, Emperor Paul made a sharp turn in foreign Policy. He broke up with the previous "allies" (London and Vienna), and decided to establish relations with France, with which Russia, in fact, did not have indigenous contradictions, any military, territorial and economic disputes. In response, the British organized the murder of Paul.

When leaving the Russian squadron from the Ionian Islands in the Black Sea, the Kefalonians, as a sign of appreciation, were brought by F. F. Ushakov Great Gold Medal with images of Admiral (inscription Around: "Valorous Pious Fyodor Ushakov, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Fleet"), Corfu Fortress and Odio's fortress, Begging two French ship, and before Vido - six Russian ships (inscription: "All Ionic Islands Savior Kefalonia."

On March 3, 1799, Fyodor Ushakov's squadre liberated the island of Corfu dejected by the French. "Why wasn't I at Corfu at least Michman?", I talked about the brilliant victory of Russian sailors. Contrary to the opinions of military theorists, the powerful fortress was taken by the forces of the fleet alone.

At the end of the XVIII century, France led an active conquest policy. In 1797, the ionic islands were captured, which allowed the French to spread the influence not only to the Balkans, but also to Egypt, Malny Asia and the Black Sea possessions of Russia.

These events pushed Turkey, Russia and England to unite in the struggle against the French expansion.

The agreement on the Union of the country signed in December 1798, but even before his conclusion - in August 1798 - it was decided that the united Russian-Turkish squadron would send his strength to the liberation of the Ionian Islands.

So, to the forces of Vice-Admiral (six linear ships, seven frigates, three Avizo and landing), which, according to the general agreement, appointed to command the United Navy, joined the Turkish squadron of Vice Admiral Kadyr-Bay (four linear ship, six frigates, four Corvette and 14 gunboats).

By October 1798, the Russian sailors liberated the islands that allowed actually to control the waters of the archipelago: kitiru, Zakynthos and Kefalonia, in early November, the French garrison was knocked out with Lefkas.

Now Ushakov suggested all the forces against the largest and most well-fortified archipelago island - Corfu.

The French covered Corfu from the nearby islets of Vioos and Lazretto. There were about 800 soldiers and five artillery batteries under the command of the Brigades General Pivron. On Corfu, in the old and new fortifications, the garrison numbered 3,000 soldiers and 650 guns under the beginning of General Shabo. In addition, a 74-cannon ship "Women", 50-cannon Frank English Ship "La Freamer", La Brun, La Brun, Brig, and four auxiliary vessels stood in the harbor between Corfu and Vido.

It was almost impossible to go through such a powerful defense, so they decided to subjected to Corfu blockade. It began on October 24, 1798 with arrival to the island of the detachment of ships under the command of the captain of the 1st rank I. Selivachev. "Let's stop every communication with an island," the Ushakov put this task. Later, the captain of the 2nd rank of I.Pocoches, the main forces of the squadron headed by Ushakov, the centers of the 1st rank of D. Senavine, approached Corfu. The French forces were opposed by 12 linear ships and 11 frigates, a team of marine grenadiers in 1700 people, 4250 Turkish soldiers, as well as about 2,000 inhabitants of Corfu.

Despite all the difficulties - the cold winter and the lack of proper supply, which fell on Turkey's shoulders, - Ushakov managed to organize a dense blockade of the island, which lasted four months.

The French garrison lost the opportunity to receive help from the outside, and to prevent the French to extract themselves through the robbery of the local population, a small landline with artillery landed on Corfu and two batteries were built. Another battery of Ushakov's sailors was organized on Lazaretto, which the French left without a fight.

For the entire time of the blockade and on land, and the sea systematically occurred between the Allied and French forces.

Storming the fortress was assumed by the joint efforts of Russian and the Turks, but the Turkish command was delayed to send the promised landing. Despite this, Ushakov still continued to prepare for the occurrence, which, according to his plan, envisaged a simultaneous blow to Corfu and Vino.

The assault began in the morning of March 2, 1799. The Ushakov squadron is located in a strictly thought-out disposition, and immediately several ships hit the CODE batteries. The island responded with a powerful gun fire.

This is how this moment the participant of Egor Metaxa described this moment:

Unlimited, terrible shooting and thunder of large guns led to the thrill of all the surroundings. Vido, one might say, there was all blown off the cards, and not only the trenches ... There was no tree left, which would not be damaged by the sim terrible iron hail. At eleven hours of cannons with French batteries were shot down, all the people who defended them were killed, the other, listed in fear, rushed out of the bush in the bush, not knowing where to hide.

Artillery duel lasted for about four hours. The French frigates "Leandr" and "La-Brun" tried to help to the assassination, however, having received serious damage under the fire "St. Peter "and" Navarakhia ", they were forced to retreat. After the cannonade with French batteries weakened, the landing land ash on the shore, he fastened between the batteries and went further to the middle of the island. The Turks, which were part of the Joint Design of the French, gave a slaughter from the stubborn resistance, arranged a slaughter, without even the prisoners, the protection of which Russian officers stood.

By 14 o'clock, the island of Vido was taken. 200 French soldiers killed, more than 400, including the commandant of the fortress of General Pivron, were captured.

In parallel with the assault and taking, the Russian ships led the shelling of fortifications on Corfu, first of all the strongest of them - the fortresses of Salvador. Lowned on Corfu after the fall, the desant rapidly rushed to the attack of the outdoor defensive structures of the fortress. The first attack was repulsed by the French, and only the second blow, applied after the arrival of the reinforcement, ended with success.

French Commander Shabo, seeing hopelessness, sent a letter to Ushakov with a request for a truce for 24 hours, during which he pledged to sign the capitulation. The next day, March 3, the French officially capitulated.

Contrary to the opinions of military theorists, the powerful fortress was taken by the forces of the fleet alone. As for the role of the Turkish squadron in capturing Corfu, then she is negligible.

In a letter to Kadyr-Bey, in March 1799, Ushakov wrote so straight and wrote: "You have been in the northern and southern part of the Strait with our Squadre, but they were always in the parking lot on the anchors, but they were always in anchors. Ships never entered, and at the storming of the island of Vioso were in remote from it, except for one frigate ... ".

The Ushakov himself was produced for this victory in Admirals, and the population of the islands is hotly thanked Russian sailors for liberation and independence.

The Republic of Seven Islands with a democratic constitution was created under the archipelago under the temporary protectory of Russia and Turkey, the foundations of which were proposed by Fyodor Ushakov. At the head of the republic stood Count John Capodistria, afterwards - Minister of Foreign Affairs Russian EmpireAnd even later - the first president of independent Greece.

Russia acquired a military base on the Mediterranean Sea, which was successfully used during the war of the third coalition of European powers against France.

A.M. Samsonov. The assault island Corfu. 1996

An important strategic point of the Ionian Archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea is the island of Corfu was engaged in French troops. In early June 1797, the island lay parallel to the Albanian shore and was separated from him a wide enough strait. The city where the fortress was located on the narrow caution of the Strait. From a long time, Corfu was considered the key to the Adriatic and everyone tried to take possession of them, because for his centuries-old history was well fortified. His bastions were considered impregnable. They consisted of a double fastener fence with dry Rips. The main fortress of Corfu, protected by a 3-thousand garrison, had 650 serfs. Two others were adjacent to the main fortress: to the east - old, to the West - new. From the side of the coast, the main fortress was covered by Forts of Abraham, San Salvador, whose right flank was adjacent to the sea, and Reduced St. Rocca, who covered the approaches to both forts. At the tip of Cape with a high and steep cliff, a citadel was located, separated from the city of deep and wide mo.

From the sea, the fortress was covered with a well-fortified island of Vido, on which five batteries were located. The garrison of the island consisted of 500 people. At the approaches to Vido from the sea, bon of iron chains were supplied. In the harbor between Corfu and Vioso stood the 74-gun ship "Women", the 50-cannon-fired English ship "Leandr", the Frigate "Brinus", the bombard of the ship, two galleys and four half-fences.

Map of Corfu Island

Forces under the general guidance of Vice-Admiral consisted of 10 linear ships, 13 frigates, 7 small vessels and 14 gunboats.

Before arriving at the Islands of the United Squadron, the General Commissioner of the French executive directory in the Ionian Archipelago Dubua gave an order to transfer a significant part of the troops from the islands of Zante, Kefalonia, Cerigo and St. Mauri at Corfu, where he was intended to defend themselves "until the very extreme."

It did not seem to take such a fortress, because it needed significant forces and special training. Therefore, the captain is 1 rank I.A. Selivachev, who arrived at Corfu on October 24 (November 4), 1798 with a detachment of 5 ships and 3 frigates entrusted to him, decided to organize the blockade of the island in order to prepare for a decisive assault.

In early November, Ushakov, personally arrived to Corfu, began to tighten additional forces to the island from the already liberated islands and began on November 6 to the methodical siege. As when taking Zante and St. Maur, two detachments were planted ashore: from the north - 128 people under the team of Captain Kikin and from the south - 19 people under the Lieutenant team (later Vice Admiral). With the assistance of local residents, from which a detachment of 1600 people was formed, they managed to build siege batteries.

For a closer blockade and preparation for the storm, Ushakov lacked ground troops. In the meantime, in anticipation of the promised 17 thousand Albanians, Russian Admiral could only count on his strength and to help the Greeks. Corfiotiy were ready to give 10-15 thousand people at his disposal, but they scared their presence on the squadron of the Turks, whose atrocities were well known. On this occasion, F.F. Ushakov with bitterness wrote Paul I: "If I had with me alone only the regiment of the Russian landago troops for the landing, I could certainly hoped Corfu to take a cumulatively together with the inhabitants who are alone with the mercy so that draws other troops, except ours, to that Do not use.

The ships of the connected squadron blocked all exits from the Corfiotic bay: from the south forces of three ships and frigate, from the north - a ship and three frigates. 14 (25) November to Northern Beach was landed the landing of 128 sea soldiers and artillery officers under the command of Captain Kikin, who on the other day staged a battery of nine guns against strengthening St. Abraham. 18 (29) On the southern part of the island, a landing of 13 soldiers and 6 artilleryrs were planted.

In view of the inability to resist the sea forces of the connected squadron, the French began to take active actions against coastal batteries. On November 20 (December 1), the Southern Battery was captured by a successful sealing. Attempting to capture the northern battery ended in failure. Large losses, they were forced to return to the fortress and abandon active actions, Using on powerful bastions and arrival of troops from Ancona.

And indeed, there were three former venetian 64-gun ship with several transport ships from Ancona, on board which there were 3 thousand troops. But, having learned about the state of affairs on Corfu, they took the reverse course. Thus, the French garrison remained completely sliced \u200b\u200bfrom the outside world.

But the situation was severe and for the connected squadron. According to the agreements of the Allied powers, it was supposed to be supplied with the Turkish side, but the Turkish contractions are contrary to these agreements, essentially sabotaged the supply, as a result of which the squadron endured "extreme need" literally in everything. On this occasion, F.F. Ushakov wrote a Russian emergency messenger and Plenipotentiary Minister to Constantinople by the secret adviser: "From all ancient history I do not know and I do not find examples, so that when the fleet could be in remoteness without any supply and in such extremes, in which we are now. "

The situation was complicated and unusually cold weather for these places, due to which the blockade had to lead in unbearable conditions. But even in this heavy setting, Russian sailors, lawlessly trusting their beloved admiral, did not fall in spirit. "Our servants," Fedor Fedorovich wrote, "from jealousy and, wanting to please me, an extraordinary activity was on the batteries: they worked in the rain, and in the wet or frosthed in the mud, but they tried patiently and tried with great jealousy" .

By the end of the year, two 74-gun ships arrived from Sevastopol in Corfu and three auxiliary vessels under the command of the counter-admiral, and thus the connected squadron consisted already from 12 linear ships and 11 frigates.

January 23 (February 3) 1799. On the south side of the island, the installation of new batteries, which consisted of 13 large and three smaller guns and seven mortira of different caliber began.

Observing the intensive preparations of Russian-Turkish troops, the besieged began to lose hope for help. Then the commander of the French ship "Zhere" Captain Lezhowel, who has repeatedly tolding attempts to escape from the fortress, again volunteered to break through the blockade and go to Ankon for reinforcements. For this purpose on the night of January 26 (February 6), the French was committed by a distracting catch. At this time, the "fever" with the "deleted" sails accompanied by the gallele came out of the port, broke through the Real Bay squad from the northern side of the bay and went to the sea.

By mid-February, thanks to the firm requirements and at the same time, the subtle diplomatic activities of Ushakov managed to achieve 4250 warriors-Albanians from the Turkish rulers. Although it was just a quarter of the promised, nevertheless, the commander began intensive preparations for the decisive storming of the fortress.

14 (25) February, Ushakov began the last preparations for the assault. He ordered to train sailors and soldiers to overcoming various barriers and storming fortifications. In large numbers, assault staircases were manufactured. The commander itself has developed 132 conventional signals for managing ships and landing during the assault.

February 17 (28), when preliminary preparation was completed, F.F. Ushakov on "St. Pavle "gathered the advice of flagships and captains. On the council were delivered specific tasks and read the order about the storming of Corfu with the place of landing destinations. According to the order, a specially highlighted detachment of ships was to neutralize the actions of the French courts for the delivery of reinforcements with Corfu in Vino and on Vino to send the fundamental blow by the fleet by the forces, since it was he who was the key to the main fortress. Ground troops with the support of ship and coastal artillery was supposed to take advanced fortifications.

Portrait of Admiral F.F. Ushakov. Lithography

And here 18 (29) February with the first favorable wind, as was determined by the order, began the assault. At seven o'clock in the morning, on the signal from the flagship ship, the connected squadron was shot from anchor and under all the sails began to approach the coastal batteries of the Island of Vido, leading continuous fire on them. The frigates "Kazan Mother of God" and "Herim-Captain" entered into battle. Applying to the distance of the bouncy shot to the battery located on the north-western tip of the island, they hit her hail of the cores. Then other squadron ships approached the remaining four batteries and, putting on the vehicle, began to shoot them. Thus, ships and frigates took their disposition places and formed two lines, the first of which was occupied by Russian ships.

Clearly tracing the course of the battle, Ushakov, being on "St. Pavle, "accompanied by the frigate bypassed the whole building and, going close to the shore, began shelling the most powerful battery of the Vioso Island. At the same time, shelling and the main fortress from the coastal batteries established in the northern and southern parts of Corfu began.

According to the general plan, the captain's ship 1 rank "St. Peter "and the frigate" Navarachiya ", remaining on the go, closely approached the port and tied a shootout with the ship" Leandr "and the Frigat" Brin ". The French ships from the Russian courts are practically disabled with Russian courts, and several gallery with troops on them, designed to reinforce the garrison specion, sinking.

By 10 o'clock in the morning, the attack of the United forces became common, and already 11 o'clock cannonada with French batteries weakened noticeably. This is how this moment is described by the participant of Egor Metax: "The continuous, terrible shooting and thunder of large guns led to the thrill of all the surroundings. Vido, one might say, there was all blown off the cards, and not only the trenches ... There was no tree left, which would not be damaged by the sim terrible iron hail. At eleven hours of cannons with French batteries were shot down, all the people who defended them were killed, the other, presented in fear, rushed out of a bush in a bush, not knowing where to hide. "

At the same time, the flagship ship raised a signal to landing the landing, which was planted for rowing ships in advance. Under the cover of the ship artillery, the galleys went to the two opposite sides of the specion. Despite the stubborn resistance of the deposited and the fire of small vessels standing at the shore, a number of 2172 people secured between batteries and went further to the middle of the island.

Turks who were part of the landing embitted by the resistance of the French began to cut everything in a row, without even the prisoners, the protection of which Russian officers stood up.

By 14 o'clock, the island of Vido was taken. 422 people were captured, 20 of them are 20 officers and a commandant of the Fortress Brigadier General Pivron. However, with the take, the assault of Corfu did not end. The battle center moved to the main fortress, the shelling of which lasted with South and Northern batteries, as well as from five ships. Initially, Albanians went to the assault to the external fortifications of Corfu, but the besieged survived. Then the Russian-Turkish troops rose in the attack and crowded the French, forcing them to hide in the main fortress.

Taking the species, strengthening of St. Abraham and Salvador solved the fate of the rest of the fortresses of Corfu. The commander of the French garrison General Shabo, having lost about 1000 people and seeing the uselessness of further resistance, sent a message to Ushakov:

"Mr. Admiral!

We believe that it is useless to endanger the life of a few hundred brave Russians, Turkish and French soldiers in the struggle for the possession of Corfu. As a result, we offer you a truce for a period that you will find necessary to establish the conditions for the commissioning of this fortress. "

Message Shabo was delivered to the flagship Russian ship by a boat under the French and Russian flags. Adjutant of the French general with two officers handed him to Ushakov. Immediately after that, Fyodor Fedorovich gave an order for the cease-fire for 24 hours and sent to Shabo of his adjutant Lieutenant P.I. Balabina (later Major General, Commander of the 1st County of Gendarmes) with the terms of surrender. As a result, February 20 (March 3) "On the Russian Admiral ship" St. Paul "Act about the surrender of the Fortress Corfu was signed. Under the document, his signatures were set: from the French side - Grushl, Dufur, Karez, Wirth, and from the Allies - Vice Admiral Ushakov and Kadyr-Bay. "The above-attached capitulation is ratified and adopted by the name of the French rule below. The general commissar of the executive directory of the French Republic of Dubua and the Division General Shabo. Prints are attached: Kadyr-Bay, Vice Admiral Ushakov, Dubois and Shabo. "

According to the terms of the surrender, the French, passing the fortress Corfu, together with all the former ships, shops, arsenals and other suggestions, pledged to be honest not to serve against Russia and its allies within 18 months. At noon on February 22 (March 5), the French troops number of 2931 people left the fortress and, folding the weapons and banners before the construction of Russian-Turkish troops, began to prepare for sending to Toulon. This, however, did not touch the 100 captive Jews, together with the French who defended Corfu. They were sent by the Turks to Constantinople. Losses from the Russian-Turkish troops were insignificant.

Lieutenant Ratmanov brought to the flagship ship and handed the commander of the French banner and the keys to the fortress, which entered only the Russian sailors. In the fortress, the winners got 105 Mortira, 21 Gaubitsa, 503 guns, 4105 guns, 1224 bombs, 105,884 cores, 620 knitters, 572,420 rifle cartridges, 2574 pounding powder. In the port of Corfu, the Linear ship "Leandr", Frigate "Brinus", Poland, a bombard, two galleys, four half-money and three merchant vessels were taken.

It was the day of the great celebration of Admiral Ushakov, the celebration of his military talent and a firm will, supported by courage and the art of his subordinates, their confidence in their victorious leader and his confidence in their unshakable courage. It was the day of the celebration of the Russian Spirit.

Korfu's assault showed a sample to the end of a well-thought-out and logically completed naval operation. And, of course, this grand victory could not be a reality without the dedication, with which the Russian sailors blocked and stormed Bastion Corfu. Despite all the tights and deprivation, the Russian warriors survived and won.

The great Russian commander, having learned about the victory at Corfu, exclaimed: " Great Peter Our alive! That he, on breaking in 1714, the Swedish fleet under the Aland Islands said, namely: "Nature produced Russia only one; She has no rival! " - Now we see. Hooray! Russian fleet! I am now talking myself: "Why wasn't I in Corfu, although Micheman?"

Congratulated Ushakova and English Admiral Horatio Nelson: "I congratulate your excellency with the victory of Corff. I assure you that the glory of the weapon of the faithful ally is just as for me, as well as the glory of my sovereign. "

The news of the capture of Corfu fliter to Constantinople on March 5 (March 16). The joyful news with keys from the fortress and other trophies delivered to the capital of Real Bay Fett. On the same hour, this news was separated from the city, "by making universal joy with the praise of Vice Admiral Ushakov."

At the same time, Fett of Bay did not cease everywhere to praise Russian soldiers and sailors for their discipline and courage, "filling out that at the appeal to the Turkish Mattozov and they are pretty riding obedience."

Two days later, a conference with the participation of the Russian envoy V.S. took place in the House of Reiz-Efendi. Tomara. After ordinary greetings, Reis-Efendi, he gladly informed the Russian messenger that "the pleasant news about the surrender of the Korfu fortresses and the capture of the attachment of important posts of Vioso and Salvador and great services in Tom Vice Admiral Ushakov rendered was universal pleasure and to him of respect."

Then Atyuf-Ahmet turned the scroll with the message of Sultan and handed it to the translator. It said: "Jealousy and service, Russian admiral Ushakov generally with certain chiefs of my in the conquest of the former Venetian islands and the conception of the Corfu Fortress rendered, there is a very well-known. Lord God bless him! This pleasure mine R. Efandy must seal the town of Messenger so that it is especially reported on the All-Russian Emperor. The Most High Allied Howing Weapons will always bless with victories over the enemies. "

To marke out the service provided by Vice Admiral Ushakov, Sultan sent a diamond Chelleg for him, sable a fur coat and 1000 Chervonians into minor expenses, and for the team - 3,500 Chervons.

Cheleng (Golden Feather Torn by Diamonds), presented by Turkish Sultan
F.F. Ushakov

Vasily Stepanovich Tomara, reveaning pleasure for such a flight assessment of the merit of Vice-Admiral Ushakov, presented a letter of Ushakov to the Supreme Vizir, in which Fedor Fedorovich was aware of the diligence in the Kadyr-Beei service and the ram of the cartridge-beat.

Thanks the Russian Messenger, Reising Efendi continued to "attribute great praise" Ushakov for his enterprise and knowledge. At the same time, he asked Tomara to send the plan for all the fortifications of the Corfu Island through the Russian admiral, "because many knowledgeable ones won the island's take-off species by the work of Multi-hard, and Salvador is impossible. After that, Izmet-Bay retells different unsuccessful enterprises from the Ottoman Empire to master the fortresses of the island of Corfu, that after that they were still strengthened by the Venetians, and then more French, and that they would not believe it first in Europe. "

In response, Tomara not without pleasure noted: "There are many respects that should be a very pleasant acquisition to us. First, this is the smallness of funds used on it, for it turns out that one of the strongest fortifications in Europe is taken by force without an army, without siege artillery, without the discovery of tranches and, in a word, without a whole thing that is revered by necessary in the attack of fortresses, Even the most mediocre. On the other hand, in a ten-year war, this is the first conquest of the region, part of the republic of the United and inseparable. This actually proves that where there is direct military courage and unitedness, there the French will not only convert, but also easy. "

As a sign of gratitude to the Russian admiral, the Supreme Vizier on the command of Sultan sent the firman with the praise, which was publicly read in the Turkish squadron. And even the battered Ushakov-Pasha Kychuk-Hussein in every way "snatched" his exploits and spoke that if he had been on the site of Kadyr Bay, "I would give an example of obedience to the commander of the Russian escade."

Congratulated Ushakov and the Russian Messenger himself. On March 17 (March 28), he wrote: "Take, my gracious sovereign, who was excluding my congratulations expressing the sovereign and the Son of the One of the Fatherland with you. The victory you will approve the hope of all bonionous euronds that our weapons exceeding both the strength and goats of the monsters, asked for the enslavement of the human race. And in fact, the conquest of the Islands of the EEATIC, who have completed without an army, without artillery, and, more, no bread, is not only the famous military feat, but also the first in such a long-term war, the rejection of the whole member of the republic, called one and inseparable ... " . And in the report of Chancellor A.A. Bezborodko from April 1, Vasily Stepanovich noted: "Vice-Admiral Ushakov did not leave the ordinary fate of the Affairs of Greek. And the Turks, and foreigners, present when taking fortresses and those who know the smallness of the funds and the shortcomings of the United Squadron, extol the vice-admiral praise and our courage of our troops put the main emphasis of hope in this war. "

Medal, minted in honor of F.F. Ushakov in Greece. Central Military Museum

He also wrote about the famous victory and the Russian Messenger in Vienna A.K. Razumovsky, noticing that "the importance of this acquisition and the image that it followed, aggravates the pleasure of every son of the Fatherland."

However, despite this, he had its explicit underestimation by the Russian emperor. Not yet having news about the take of the island, Paul I in my rescript from 14 (25) Martha in the name of Ushakov wrote: "The entire fleet should now have in motion and action, not engaged in an unimportant point of Ataco Corfu." Therefore, partly becomes clear why the emperor for such a significant victory limited himself to the publication of the decree of admiralty college on the award of F.F. Ushakov Rin Admiral.

After the brilliant victory, Fyodor Fedorovich wrote with bitterness: "We do not want any award, if only our servants, so true and zealously employees, would not be sick and did not die with the hunger." Each of them was a hero, and no one was forgotten by his commander.

Unlike the Russian monarch, in Europe "were very amazed" by the fall of those who considered the impregnable fortress. And therefore, the capture of Corfu was a large political resonance, which significantly strengthened the confidence of the countries of the anti-armnce coalition in general success.

Thus, conquest. Corfu completed the liberation of the ionic islands from the French and allowed the coalition forces to fully control the situation in the Mediterranean. In addition, the assault on the unpleasant seaside fortress was written in a red string in the history of the Patriotic School of Naval Art.

Monument to Admiral F.F. Ushakov in Kerkira (about. Corfu, Greece). The author of the memorial composition is Russian sculptor V. Idinov

Vladimir Ovchinnikov,
Leading Researcher
Research Institute (Military History)
Military Academy of General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation

During the 2nd Coalition War, the Russian fleet acted in its Mediterranean for the second time in its history. The fortress Corfu, built by the Venetians, was considered one of the key and strongest French fortresses on the Ionic Islands. The garrison under the command of the Brigadier General Shaboque has more than 3.5 thousand people. Corfu blockade by Russian ships began in November 1798. Mastering the fortress with a strong garrison required long-term siege works, so the actions were carried out in several directions: on land, where Russian and allied Turkish parts were siege, building several batteries, and the sea with the organization of the blockade to prevent delivery to the strength of reinforcements. The blockade was carried out in the conditions of winter storms and a constant shortage of food. In addition to problems with the supply, the relationship between the Russian squadron commander with the Allies on the Anti-Manzuz coalition was not easy. Ushakov himself noted that the British "wish us from all the present cases to press and simply say, to make flies to fish, and in order to join those places that they try to separate us."

It was not easier and with official representative Ports Ali-Pasha, who constantly led double, or even a triple game and, at the first opportunity, demonstrated who is a real owner of the Balkan. Much later, the image of this, of course, a bright person will be led by Alexander Duma in the novel "Count Monte Cristo". It's not by chance that Ushakov in the report of Paul I so characterized the actions of Ali Pasha: "Correspondence of his always to me a high -tentence with encouraging, but in fact, faithful compliance is not noticeable, except for the melting of his enchanting enterprises."

Landing landing in Corfu. (Evgenykorneev.ru)

It should be noted that the events at Corfu became one of the very few episodes of Russian-Turkish military cooperation, and far from ideal. 2.5 thousand Albanians sent to the help of Ushakov 2.5 thousand Albanians were taken to the Russian admiral in the future a lot of problems. They were useless as land forces, but they demanded significant forces to hold in obedience to avoid robbery.

Winter passed in small skirmishes, the end of the siege was not visible. The Corfu garrison still did not experience the lack of food and ammunition, however, the gulling atmosphere, periodic shelling, the state of unknownness and monotony in oppressively acted on the French. The situation has changed only in February 1799, when the reinforcements promised to Ushakov, the reinforcements promised by Turks. But even them were clearly not enough for the frontal storming of the fortress. As a result, a bold and unusual solution was made: the main blow should be applied by the sea landing at the key point of defense - the island of Vino. The landing of the landing at the enemy busy coast at all times was considered the most difficult military enterprise. It is known that the English colleague of Ushakov in the Mediterranean Campania Horatio Nelson two is the most severe injured with the loss of hand and injured the eye not in the sea battle, but with unsuccessful attempts of landing.

Fedor Fedorovich Ushakov. (Territaland.ru)

The landing of the landing on March 1, 1799 was preceded by a short, but intense bombardment of the fortress by Russian ships; Turkish ships, with the exception of one frigate, remained as of the statists. The initial success of Russian commanders who suppressed part of the opponent's batteries, was almost short to zero the actions of the allies, when a significant part of the Albanian troops refused to participate in the landing. Now, contrary to the initial plan, the main power of the landing should be Russian sailors and Grenadiers. In addition to weapons, paratroopers had pre-prepared stairs and boards required for assault and crossing through numerous streams and ditch on the shore. The landing of the landing (2159 grenadiers and seafarers) was held in three points outside the zone of the majority of French batteries with such a calculation so that the landing, avoiding the frontal attack, could attack the position of the enemy from the flanks and act using the crossed terrain. Further fight represented a consistent seizure of French batteries. The success of the operation was provided with powerful artillery support from ships and right choices Places for landing the landing, which without serious losses mastered the strengthening of the enemy.

Corfu Fortress Attack Scheme. (Ocean-Media.su)

Having told Vido, Ushakov began storming the new fortress, in which almost all cash forces took part. After falling the strengthening of St. Roca, the French sent parliamentarians with a proposal to conclude a truce and start negotiations on the surrender of the fortress. In the letter Ushakov Commissioner Dubua and General Shabo reported: "Mr. Admiral! We think that it is useless to sacrifice the life of the brave soldiers of Russian. Turkish and French for mastering Korfo. As a result, we offer you a truce for how much time you judge to resolve the conditions for the delivery of this fortress. " On the same day, the fortress was delivered to the fortress a response letter to the Komentant of the fortress: "For your digital writing of your contracts, before the fortress of the Korfu's fortresses, I was talking to the Turkish squad, I will deliver it to the Sim, in order not to shed in vain. I always agree to pleasant treaties and meanwhile to go to all places to stop the military actions for 24 hours. "

On March 3, the Fortress Corfu was handed over to the terms of the Cipitulation. In total, 2931 people were captured at Corfu, including four generals. The French garrison was evacuated to the toulon on ships pressed by the Russian side, with the promise for 18 months not to participate in hostilities against Russia and Turkey. As trophies, Russian and Turkish troops got all the reserves and artillery of the fortress, linear ship and frigate. The relief from the French troops of the ionic islands was completed with the assault Corfu, and the Russian fleet received a comfortable military base in the Eastern Mediterranean. The political resonance of victory was notable. Alexander Vasilyevich Suvorov, Alexander Vasilyevich Suvorov, gave a high assessment of Corfu: "URU of the Russian Fleet. I am now talking to myself: why I was not at Corfu, although Michemale. "