Battle of Tashkesen

The Battle of Tashkesen was a significant stage in driving the Ottoman Orhaniye Army from its Arabakonak position during Gurko's Western Detachment's winter crossing of the Balkan Mountains in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878.

A covering force of eight battalions, three cavalry squadrons and seven guns was established at Tashkesen to protect the Orhaniye Army's retreat. Russian troops under Lieutenant General Gurko nevertheless broke through the Ottoman defences.

The Western Detachment launched a coordinated attack on the key height and redoubts north of the village. Russian troops breached the defences, causing panic and capturing the positions held by Valentine Baker Pasha's covering force.

Both sides suffered substantial casualties. The Russian army prevailed, driving back the Ottomans and continuing through the Balkan Mountains. Russian losses were 577 officers and men killed or wounded; Ottoman losses are not precisely known.

The battle was crucial to Gurko's successful mountain crossing and the Russian army's subsequent achievements in the war.