The First Battle of Serres

In 1195, Byzantium offered peace to the Bulgarian tsar Asen I, citing the coronation of the new emperor in Constantinople, Alexios III Angelos. Despite this diplomatic gesture, negotiations failed because of the Bulgarians' substantial demands and their view that the proposed terms were insufficiently favourable. No peace treaty was concluded. During the warmer months of 1195, the Bulgarian army reached and attacked Serres, engaging the Byzantine force under Alexios Aspietes.

The battle ended in a Byzantine defeat. Alexios Aspietes was captured, and several Bulgarian fortresses were strengthened.