Fleet Ledger

Naval wars from the age of sail to the present day

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Bombardment of Almería

Bombardment of Almería

31 May 1937, Almería

German reprisal; about 20 civilians killed

In reprisal for the attack on Deutschland, Admiral Scheer and four destroyers shelled the Republican port of Almería at dawn, firing some 200 shells. About 20 civilians were killed, 50 wounded and 35 buildings destroyed. The Republic's defence minister, Indalecio Prieto, wanted to strike back at the German fleet, but the government refused, fearing open war with Germany.

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The German cruiser ("pocket battleship") Admiral Scheer in port at Gibraltar, circa 1936. Note the Spanish Civil War neutrality markings (red, white & black stripes) painted on her forward gun turret. Image: U.S. Navy, Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Republican-held Almería

No ships engaged

Forts, batteries and aircraftStrengthOutcome

Port and city of Almería

Not recorded

About 20 civilians killed and 35 buildings destroyed

Kriegsmarine (Germany)

5 ships, none lost

ShipTypeOutcome
Admiral Scheer

Heavy cruiser

Deutschland class

Survived
Flotillas and other craftNumberLost

Destroyers

40

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