Greek victory at Bizani ended Ottoman control of Ioannina, concluding the Epirus campaign of the First Balkan War.
Key Facts
- Dates
- 4–6 March 1913 (O.S. 19–21 February)
- Conflict
- First Balkan War
- Location
- Epirus, near Ioannina
- Bombardment
- Heaviest in world history up to that time
- Greek commander
- Crown Prince Constantine
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
At the outbreak of the First Balkan War, Greek forces on the Epirus front lacked sufficient numbers to assault the German-designed Ottoman fortifications at Bizani. After the Macedonian campaign concluded, large reinforcements were redeployed to Epirus and Crown Prince Constantine assumed personal command, enabling a credible offensive.
Between 4 and 6 March 1913, Greek forces launched a well-coordinated assault on the Ottoman defensive positions at the forts of Bizani. The attack featured the heaviest artillery bombardment recorded in world history up to that point, and solid operational planning prevented Ottoman forces from mounting an effective response.
The Ottoman defensive line was breached and Ioannina, the largest city in Epirus, was captured by Greek forces. The victory effectively ended Ottoman presence in the region and concluded the Epirus front of the First Balkan War, with Greece securing control over the territory.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Crown Prince Constantine.
Side B
1 belligerent