Battle of Elena

The Battle of Elena consisted of three battles in the Russo- Ottoman war (1877-1878) that were fought with alternating wins between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

The town of Elena is situated close to a pass over the Balkan Mountains. About this and the neighboring Shipka Pass, the Ottomans attempted first relief to the north, to bring to their enclosed in Pleven troops. This was effectively blocked by the Russians in the first battle of 12 July and the blockade of the pass. However, the Turkish breakthrough on December 4 did not come in time to march up to Pleven can. With the surrender on December 10, 1877 there large Russian units were released and marched south, towards Istanbul. After the successful battle of 14 December, the way was open to the south.

It was followed by the Battle of Philippopolis on 17 January 1878.