Bayezid had crossed the River Danube in 1394 to attack Wallachia, ruled at this time by Mircea the Elder.

The Ottomans are superior in number, but on October 10, 1394 (or May 17, 1395), in the Battle of Rovine, on forested and swampy terrain, the Wallachians prevent Bayezid's army from advancing beyond the Danube.

During the fierce battle the main role is played by the Wallachian archers, who annihilate the Ottoman ranks at the beginning of their attack.

Bayazid's vassals Stefan Lazarević and Marko Mrnjavčević, the mightiest of all Serbian feudal lords, also participate in the battle; Stefan shows great courage, Marko dies in battle.