Reenactment of Napoleon’s famous defeat at the Battle of the Nations

This year marks the 197th anniversary of the Battle of the Nations near Leipzig, where Napoleon suffered a decisive blow at the hands of coalition forces. See photos of the reenactment taken by a participant in the RIA Novosti project, You’re a Reporter.

1/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

This year marks the 197th anniversary of the Battle of the Nations near Leipzig, where Napoleon suffered a decisive blow at the hands of coalition forces.

2/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

The Battle of the Nations was the largest battle prior to World War I. Napoleon led the French Army against the Sixth Coalition, comprising Russia, Austria, Prussia, and Sweden.

3/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Roughly half a million soldiers fought in the battle.

4/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

A Russian Orthodox Church stands in Leipzig in honor of the 22,000 Russian soldiers killed in battle. The largest monument in Europe was also erected here to commemorate the battle.

5/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Citizens of every country that fought in this fierce battle, except Russia, took part in the reenactment commemorating its 197th anniversary.

6/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Pyrotechnics in the reenactment of the Battle of Leipzig.

7/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

The reenactment took place near Markkleeberg, the site of one of the largest engagements in this three-day battle.

8/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Photo: Reenactors dressed as officers holding a meeting.

9/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

The uniforms used in the reenactment are elaborate and very expensive.

10/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Soldiers from various countries took part in the Battle of the Nations.

11/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Photo: Napoleon

12/12

© Photo : Egor Frolov

Each reenactor had a rifle but some had cannons and horses.