Otto II moves his army westward after celebrating Easter in Taranto, defeating a Muslim army in early July.
Emir Abu al-Qasim, who has declared a Holy War (jihad) against the Empire, retreats when he notices the unexpected strength of Otto II's troops when the Emperor is not far from Rossano Calabro.
Informed of the Muslim retreat, Otto II leaves his wife Theophanu and young son Otto III (along with the Imperial treasury) in the city and marches his army to pursue the Muslim force.
