Nestled at the base of Monte Cairo, Cassino lies at one end of the Valle Latina in the Italian province of Frosinone. It’s famed for its mountain-top abbey and as the setting for a World War II battle between the Allies and German forces. After being largely destroyed by aerial bombardment, Cassino was rebuilt in the 1950s.
Things to do in Cassino
Rising west of the town centre is Monte Cassino, which is dominated by a monumental abbey. It was here that the Roman settlement of Casinum once stood, with a temple dedicated to Apollo at the heart of the citadel. Founded by Saint Benedict in the 6th century, the Monte Cassino Abbey is one of the largest of its kind in Italy, with a Renaissance cloister and a richly decorated cathedral among its highlights.
Also elevated above Cassino is the Rocca Janula, a 10th-century fortress that hosts exhibitions and cultural events. Join a guided tour to learn about the storied history of the site or coincide your visit with a medieval re-enactment. Nearby is a monument dedicated to peace that was created by the Italian sculptor Umberto Mastroianni.
Honouring the 4,000+ Commonwealth servicemen who fought in Italy is the Cassino Memorial, which was designed by the Canadian architect Louis de Soissons. Among the soldiers buried here are those who served during the Battle of Monte Cassino, with the objective being to break through the Winter Line and advance on Rome.
Getting around Cassino
Cassino is around an hour’s drive from Naples International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Cassino railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Cassino can easily be explored on foot.