The fleet of Venice, Genoa, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire of Charles V confronts the Turks at Preveza. The allied fleet is commanded by Andrea Doria, who, however, orders its retreat at a crucial moment and suffers a humiliating defeat. Charles is negotiating with Khair ad-Din, commander of the Turkish fleet. Charles wants to strengthen his position in North Africa, but without leaving a free hand to his Venetian allies. He therefore orders Doria not to engage in battle unless he believes victory is assured. But his hesitation leads to Doria’s defeat.
