Monte Cassino destroyed by bombardment

By the end of 1943 British, Indian and New Zealander troops have battled their way with considerable loss of time and with heavy casualties up to the German „Gustav Line“, which includes Monte Cassino. The Germans’ defensive positions are subjected to continuous massive air bombardments. Finally, on 15 February 1944, American and British bombers also destroy the Benedictine Cloister from the year 529 located atop Monte Cassino because the allied leadership suspects the existence of a radio and intelligence station within its walls.

© boddien The ruins of the medieval monastery after the air raid

This turns out to be a mistake: German commander-in-chief Albert Kesselring, with regard for the invaluable importance of this cultural monument, had strictly forbidden using it for defensive purposes. The famous cloister is completely destroyed. 250 people are killed, mostly monks and refugees who had sought protection within its walls from the combat operations.

© Deutsches Historisches Museum, Berlin The commander-in-chief in Italy, Albert Kesselring, at a british military court in Venice, 1947