Page "Battle of Tours" Paragraph 18

From all accounts, the invading forces were caught entirely off guard to find a large force, well disposed and prepared for battle, with high ground, directly opposing their attack on Tours.

Charles had achieved the total surprise he hoped for.

He then chose to begin the battle in a defensive, phalanx-like formation.

According to the Arabian sources, the Franks drew up in a large square, with hills and trees to their front to break up the Muslim's cavalry charges.