Battle of Monte Cassino

The Battle of Monte Cassino was a series of four violent battles in Italy during World War II, fought between January and May 1944. The Allies aimed to break through German defenses to advance towards Rome. The ancient Benedictine monastery atop Monte Cassino became a focal point, as it was believed to be a fortified German position. After heavy fighting, including intense air bombardments and ground assaults, the Allies captured the area in May 1944, but at a high cost in lives and destruction. This victory allowed the Allies to push into central Italy and ultimately helped in the liberation of Rome.