Siege and relief of Alkmaar (1573)

Timeline

1. 1573Alkmaar · NetherlandsSpanish forces under Don Fadrique surrounded Alkmaar; the defenders led by William van Bentinck and others mounted a stubborn defense.
2. 1573Polders around Alkmaar · North HollandDutch forces deliberately breached dikes to flood the siege positions; Spanish supply difficulties and mounting casualties brought the offensive to a stalemate.
3. 1573Alkmaar · NetherlandsSpanish forces were compelled to lift the siege and retreat; the defense of Alkmaar ended in a Dutch rebel victory and became a landmark event of northern resistance.