Orsogna Battlefield Tour
This battlefield tour follows the journey of the 2nd New Zealand Division, including the 28th (Māori) Battalion, from the front lines at Orsogna to the decisive battles at Monte Cassino. Designed as a two-day immersive itinerary, the tour blends historical analysis, battlefield exploration, and local memory.
Please visit also our dedicated pages:
New Zealanders in the Battle of Cassino and 28th Māori Battalion Tour.
Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Orsogna Battlefield Tour
- Orsogna Town Center – Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini: Discover the strategic hilltop town fiercely defended by German forces in December 1943.
- Corso Umberto I and San Rocco Church: Key location of urban fighting during Operation Torso.
- Ravines of Madonna delle Grazie: Rugged natural defenses where the 28th (Māori) Battalion faced heavy resistance.
- Sangro River War Cemetery – Torino di Sangro: A solemn site where more than 350 New Zealand soldiers are buried.
Day 2 – Cassino Battlefield Tour
- Monte Cassino Abbey: Visit the historic monastery, symbol of the Gustav Line.
- New Zealand Memorial and War Cemetery: Dedicated to the fallen of the New Zealand Division.
- Key Battle Sites: Railway station, The Crypt, and Castle Hill — key New Zealand action points.
- Stories of the 28th (Māori) Battalion: Hear accounts of their courage and sacrifice.
The Battle of Orsogna – New Zealand’s Role in Italy
In late November 1943, the 2nd New Zealand Division advanced toward Orsogna after crossing the Sangro River. Positioned on a ridge, Orsogna was a key German stronghold along the Winter Line.
- Initial Assault (2–3 December 1943): The first attack met heavy resistance from entrenched German forces.
- Operation Torso (7 December 1943): A renewed assault involving 23rd, 24th, and 28th (Māori) Battalions, supported by armor.
- Subsequent Engagements (8–24 December 1943): Continuous clashes limited by weather and terrain.
Key Points of the Battle
- Strategic Importance: Control over access to the Adriatic and Winter Line valleys.
- Role of the 28th (Māori) Battalion: Symbol of endurance and heroism in extreme conditions.
- Challenges Faced: Urban defenses, steep ridges, freezing mud, and constant enemy pressure.
- German Defensive Tactics: Natural barriers, fortified strongpoints, and rapid counterattacks.
Contact Information
Dr. Danila Bracaglia – Historian and Certified Tour Guide
Phone: +39 338 2458831
Email: danila.bracaglia@gmail.com
Ready to walk in the footsteps of New Zealand heroes in Italy?
Book your private WWII battlefield tour with expert historian Dr. Danila Bracaglia. Tours are fully customizable for families and descendants of Kiwi veterans.