The Italian War of 1551–1559, sometimes known as the Habsburg–Valois War and the Last Italian War, began in 1551 when Henry II of France declared war against Holy Roman Emperor Charles V with the intent of recapturing parts of Italy and ensuring French, rather than Habsburg, domination of European affairs. The war ended following the signing of the Treaty of Cateau-Cambrésis between the monarchs of Spain, England and France in 1559. Historians have emphasized the importance of gunpowder technology, new styles of fortification to resist cannon fire, and the increased professionalization of the soldiers. Timeline This is an overview of notable events including battles during the war. Prelude (1547–1551) 10 September 1547: Pier Luigi Farnese, Duke of Parma, was assassinated, after which troops of Emperor Charles V occupied the Duchy of Parma. ? 1547: Ottavio Farnese, Pier Luigi's son, attacked but failed to regain Parma from the Imperial garrison commanded by Ferrante Gonzaga. 7 February 1550: The 1549–1550 papal conclave after Pope Paul III's death elected Pope Julius III, who immediately confirmed Ottavio Farnese's ownership of the Duchy of Parma. This angered Emperor Charles V, whose troops still occupied the duchy. June – 8 September 1550: Andrea Doria's Capture of Mahdia (1550) on behalf of Emperor Charles V. Late 1550: Henry II of France renewed the Franco-Ottoman alliance in response to the fall of Mahdia. 27 May 1551: Henry II of France and Ottavio Farnese, Duke of Parma signed a defensive alliance, placing Parma under French protection. First phase (June 1551 – February 1556) June 1551: The War of Parma broke out between Emperor Charles V and Pope Julius III against Henry II of France and Ottavio Farnese. July 1551: Invasion of Gozo (1551). Ottoman victory over the Maltese Knights Hospitaller. 15 August 1551: Siege of Tripoli (1551). Ottomans captured Tripoli from Maltese Knights Hospitaller. July 1551 – March 1552: Siege of Mirandola (1551). Franco–Farnese victory over Imperial-Spanish-Papal army. 15 January 1552: Treaty of Chambord. Henry II of France allied himself with German Protestant princes against Charles V. 29 April 1552: A two-year truce ended the War of Parma. March–August 1552: Second Schmalkaldic War (or Princes' Revolt). The French-allied German Protestant princes defeated Charles V (Peace of Passau, 2 August), while Henry II annexed the Three Bishoprics to France. July 1552: Franco-Ottoman raid on Reggio and Calabria. Franco-Ottoman victory over Spain. 5 August 1552: Battle of Ponza (1552). Franco-Ottoman victory