A battle fought between Russia and France, about 110 km (70 miles) west of Moscow. Here Kutuzov chose to take his stand against Napoleon’s army. The Russian position was centred upon a well-fortified hill. After twelve hours of fierce combat, a terrific artillery bombardment and a decisive cavalry charge split the Russian forces. They were forced to withdraw and Napoleon, claiming victory, marched on an undefended Moscow. Over 80,000 men were lost in the most bloody battle of the Napoleonic Wars.