The route of the Cadorna Line and the documentary center of Cassano Valcuvia offer a deep dive into local history, allowing you to relive the experience of life in the trenches during the First World War and the partisan struggle of 1943. The Cadorna Line, an imposing defensive system built between 1915 and 1918, extends through the mountains of northern Italy and includes trenches, fortifications and walkways used during the conflict. Today, these historic sites offer a unique opportunity to explore and better understand the history of the region.

Itinerary:

Document Centre:
1. Starting point of the itinerary, the Cassano Valcuvia Documentary Centre offers a rich collection of artefacts, documents and photographs illustrating the history of the Cadorna Line and the events of the First World War. The centre also provides detailed information on partisan resistance during World War II, in particular the battle of November 1943.

San Giuseppe Building:
2. After visiting the Document Centre, we head to the San Giuseppe Ridotto, one of the most significant fortifications of the Cadorna Line. This defensive structure, built in a strategic position, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding valley and allows to understand the importance of elevated positions in the context of trench warfare.

Walkways:
3. The walkways connect different sections of the fortifications and offer an immersive experience of soldiers' daily life during the conflict. These narrow passages, often dug into the rock, were used for the safe movement of troops and for transporting supplies. Walking along these walkways, you can appreciate the complexity and ingenuity of the Cadorna Line.

Shooting stations:
4. Along the way you will meet various firing positions, where soldiers were positioned to defend territory against enemy attacks. These positions, often well hidden and protected, offer a direct view of the difficult and dangerous conditions faced by the military.
 

Tunnels for shelter:
5. Shelter tunnels are underground structures used to protect soldiers from enemy attack and weather. These shelters, dug into the mountain, offer an interesting perspective on construction techniques and daily life within the fortifications.
 

Machine gun caches:

6. Machine-gun positions, positioned at strategic points along the Cadorna Line, were crucial for defending against enemy attacks. These sites, which often have a wide view of the valley, provide a better understanding of the defensive strategy adopted during the war.

Monument to the fallen of the November 1943 Battle:

7. The itinerary culminates with a visit to the monument to the fallen of the Battle of November 1943, located on Monte San Martino. This monument commemorates the soldiers and partisans who lost their lives during one of the most significant clashes of the Italian resistance. The visit to the monument offers a moment of reflection and pays tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for freedom.

Where to stay: Discover our facilities

Experience in the surroundings: Documentale Center, San Giuseppe Reduced, Walkways, Shooting Stations, Monument to the fallen of the November 1943 Battle.

Do you want to be accompanied on this tour? Request a Licensed Tourist Guide. Contact us!

Plan your experience and your stay in the territory of Varese. 

Complete your journey: reach your destination thanks to Trenitalia