The Battle of Monte Cassino was one of the most important battles fought in World War II. They were a series of four battles fought to secure the Allies' path to the Italian city of Rome. From a military point of view, Montecassino was fundamental to the victory. Culturally, however, the Montecassino hill included an ancient monastery, used by the Germans and historically and religiously important to the Italians who lived in Montecassino. The monastery was eventually destroyed, but the Allies reigned victorious, gaining control of the road to Rome. Four battles took place between January and May 1944. The first battle fought for Monte Cassino began on January 12, one of the worst of the four. The Germans had built the Gustav Line, a line that ran through Italy, attempting to keep the Allies away from Rome. The Allies hoped that an attack by the 5th Infantry would take them quickly across the line, but their failure to cross meant they were constantly under attack. Instead of a quick victory, the Allied forces found themselves in a long fight...