The Battle of Tolentino was a decisive clash in the Neapolitan War between the forces of Joachim Murat, the King of Naples, and the Austrian army under the command of General Johann von Bellegarde. Occurring in early May 1815, this engagement was a critical moment after the fall of Napoleon. Murat sought to strengthen his position in Italy, having declared allegiance to Napoleon upon his return from exile. Setting the stage for conflict, tensions escalated as Murat faced a determined Austrian military aimed at restoring order in the region and reclaiming territories lost during the Napoleonic Wars. Located near Tolentino in the Papal States, the battle unfolded over several days, with varying fortunes for both sides. The Austrian army utilized superior tactics and formations, ultimately overpowering Murat's forces. The climax of the confrontation involved significant troop movements and fierce fighting. Despite tactical efforts by Murat to fortify his position, the disciplined and well-coordinated Austrian units inflicted heavy casualties upon the Neapolitan army. After the battle, Murat's forces were forced to retreat, leading to a collapse of his authority in Naples, and paving the way for the reoccupation of Southern Italy by Austrian forces, alongside the eventual installation of a Bourbon monarchy in Naples. The defeat at Tolentino significantly diminished Murat's ambitions and territory, leading to his eventual exile and execution in the following years.