The Battle of Lissa took place on July 20, 1866, during the Austro-Prussian War. It was a naval engagement between the fleets of the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Italy near the island of Lissa in the Adriatic Sea. The battle was significant as it showcased the effectiveness of ironclad warships, particularly the Austrian ship SMS Erzherzog Ferdinand Max, which played a crucial role in the Austrian victory. The battle resulted in a decisive win for the Austrians, who managed to sink several Italian ships while suffering minimal losses themselves. This engagement marked a turning point in naval warfare, highlighting the transition from wooden ships to ironclad vessels. The outcome also influenced the balance of power in the region, solidifying Austria's naval dominance for a time.