Junot commanding the French Army of Portugal, 13,000, attacked the recently arrived British expeditionary force, 15,000, commanded by General Wellesley [later the Duke of Wellington]. Junot hoped to find the British off guard and disorganized and threw in repeated frontal attacks. The well placed British defenders repulsed every attack and the French were forced to retire on Lisbon.
The battle was important in that the 'invincible' French were beaten and Wellesley's defensive tactics were tested and proved successful.

A village in the coastal hills of central Portugal 12 miles northwest of Torres Vedras. (Portugal)

French Peninsular Army

Number engaged :

16,622

Casualties :

1,800 (10.83%)

British Peninsular Army

Number engaged :

18,669

Casualties :

719 (3.85%)