The Battle of Garigliano occurred in the backdrop of the prolonged Italian Wars, a series of confrontations involving various European powers vying for control over Italy. In December 1503, Spanish forces under the command of General Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, who had already gained a reputation for his strategic acumen, were engaged in skirmishes against French troops led by Ludovico II, Marquess of Saluzzo. The Spanish had recently secured several key victories, which emboldened them as they advanced to confront the French near the Garigliano River.

On the day of battle, both armies prepared for confrontation, but the Spaniards' superior tactics and coordination proved decisive. Utilizing their famed infantry formations and artillery effectively, they launched an assault that overwhelmed the French, leading to a swift and crushing victory. The Spanish soldiers demonstrated remarkable discipline and cohesion, showcasing the effective military reforms implemented by Fernández de Córdoba. The battle's outcome significantly impacted the territorial control in Italy, as it effectively ended French power in southern Italy for years to come.

The aftermath of the battle saw the ongoing decline of French influence in the Italian peninsula and the solidification of Spanish power. This event played a crucial role in establishing Spain as a dominant military force in Europe and set the stage for its imperial expansion in the years to follow. Additionally, it solidified González de Córdoba’s reputation as one of the foremost military commanders of his time, paving the way for further victories.