Beach Head War Cemetery Anzio
A serene and immaculately maintained Commonwealth war cemetery honoring fallen soldiers from World War II.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Beach Head War Cemetery Anzio
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene and immaculately maintained Commonwealth war cemetery honoring fallen soldiers from World War II.
"Immaculate and always so tidy, a wonderfully peaceful location for all those brave military men."
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress modestly out of respect for the fallen soldiers. :pray:
Immaculate Maintenance
Appreciate the exceptional upkeep; the grounds are always tidy and well-kept. :gardening_glove:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Immaculate Commonwealth Graves
Throughout the cemetery
Thousands of perfectly maintained Commonwealth graves, a testament to meticulous care and remembrance.
The Cross of Sacrifice
Central area
A poignant monument honoring the fallen, standing as a solemn centerpiece.
The Stone of Remembrance
Central area
An inscription dedicated to the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Why is the Allied invasion of Italy hardly talked about when compared to the Normandy invasion?
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress modestly out of respect for the fallen soldiers. :pray:
Immaculate Maintenance
Appreciate the exceptional upkeep; the grounds are always tidy and well-kept. :gardening_glove:
How is living in this part of Italy?
Location Clarity
Note this is the Commonwealth cemetery; the American one is nearby in Nettuno. :round_pushpin:
Peaceful Reflection
Find a truly peaceful spot for reflection and remembrance. :dove:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress modestly out of respect for the fallen soldiers. :pray:
Immaculate Maintenance
Appreciate the exceptional upkeep; the grounds are always tidy and well-kept. :gardening_glove:
Location Clarity
Note this is the Commonwealth cemetery; the American one is nearby in Nettuno. :round_pushpin:
Peaceful Reflection
Find a truly peaceful spot for reflection and remembrance. :dove:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Beach Head War Cemetery Anzio for its immaculate condition and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the exceptional care taken by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and local community. It's described as a deeply moving and respectful place of remembrance, though some note the need for occasional cleaning of individual graves.
"This cemetery always amazes me when I visit my Uncle's grave. It is really immaculate and always so tidy. The grass is always cut to perfection. On this day of my visit I noticed that the graves need there regular occasional clean. In the many years I have visited I have never found a fault with this place, and find it a wonderfully peaceful location for all those brave military men that lost their lives. Beach Head War Cemetery contains 2,316 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War, 295 of them unidentified."
Pamela Howlett
"My Grandads brother rests here,Lest we forget
On my visit here I was amazed how well kept this memorial site was"
Ian Gage
"Beautiful location exceptionally well managed by the CWGC!!
This is the Commonwealth cemetery in Anzio, the American one is just a few kilometers away in Nettuno.
Anzio is a coastal town 70 kilometres south of Rome. To reach Anzio take the Route No.148 Superstrada Motorway, which runs between Rome and Latina. Turn off the Superstrada at the No.207, following the signs towards Anzio. The route is well signposted from the Superstrada. The Cemetery lies 5 kilometres north of Anzio town on the No.207 and Commission signs are visible 150 metres from the cemetery. There is a small parking area at the main entrance. Beach Head War Cemetery should not be confused with Anzio War Cemetery which lies just off the No.207, 1 kilometre north of Anzio just close to the communal cemetery of Anzio. Cemetery address: Via Nettunense km 34 - 00040 Anzio (RM) Lazio. GPS Co-ordinates: Latitude: 41.482355, Longitude: 12.625456.
On 3 September 1943 the Allies invaded the Italian mainland, the invasion coinciding with an armistice made with the Italians who then re-entered the war on the Allied side. Progress through southern Italy was rapid despite stiff resistance, but by the end of October, the Allies were facing the German winter defensive position known as the Gustav Line, which stretched from the river Garigliano in the west to the Sangro in the east. Initial attempts to breach the western end of the line were unsuccessful. Operations in January 1944 landed troops behind the German lines at Anzio, but defences were well organised, and a breakthrough was not actually achieved until May. The site of the cemetery originally lay close to a casualty clearing station. Burials were made direct from the battlefield after the landings at Anzio and later, after the Army had moved forward, many graves were brought in from the surrounding country. Beach Head War Cemetery contains 2,316 Commonwealth burials of the Second World War, 295 of them unidentified. There is also one First World War burial which was brought into the cemetery from Chieti Communal Cemetery near Rome.
The cemetery was designed by Louis de Soissons."
Stefano Prina
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Anzio from Rome, take the Route No.148 Superstrada Motorway towards Latina. Exit at No.207 and follow signs for Anzio. The cemetery is about 5 km north of Anzio town on the No.207, with visible commission signs. There's a small parking area at the entrance.
The cemetery address is Via Nettunense km 34 - 00040 Anzio (RM) Lazio. GPS coordinates are Latitude: 41.482355, Longitude: 12.625456.
While the cemetery is accessible by road, public transport options might be limited. It's best to check local bus schedules or consider a taxi from Anzio town.
Yes, driving is a convenient option. There is a small parking area available at the main entrance for visitors.
Yes, Beach Head War Cemetery is located near Anzio, and the American cemetery is a few kilometers away in Nettuno.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Beach Head War Cemetery Anzio is free of charge. It is a place of remembrance maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
The cemetery is generally accessible during daylight hours, allowing for peaceful visits. It's advisable to visit during daylight for the best experience.
No advance booking is required. As a cemetery, it's open for respectful visitation without the need for tickets.
Yes, the cemetery is open for visits on weekends. It's a place of quiet reflection, so expect a peaceful atmosphere.
Visiting during daylight hours is recommended. Early mornings or late afternoons often provide a more tranquil and reflective experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cemetery contains 2,316 Commonwealth burials from WWII, many from the Anzio landings in January 1944. It originally lay near a casualty clearing station, with graves brought in from the battlefield.
You'll find immaculately maintained graves, the Cross of Sacrifice, and the Stone of Remembrance. It's a place of profound peace and remembrance.
The cemetery is exceptionally well-managed and maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), with Italian locals also taking pride in its upkeep.
Basic facilities like a small parking area are available. It's a place of remembrance, so extensive visitor amenities are not present.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Families Seeking Remembrance
While not a typical family attraction, it’s an important site for understanding the impact of World War II. Encourage children to be quiet and respectful, explaining the significance of the cemetery as a resting place for brave individuals. The well-maintained graves and monuments offer a tangible link to the past, fostering a sense of gratitude and historical awareness.
History Enthusiasts
Exploring the cemetery allows for a deeper understanding of the Allied efforts to break the Gustav Line and the challenges faced by soldiers. The presence of 2,316 Commonwealth burials, many unidentified, speaks volumes about the intensity of the conflict. It’s an essential stop for anyone interested in military history, providing a somber yet vital perspective on the Italian campaign.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Anzio Landings
The site of the cemetery itself was strategically located near a casualty clearing station. Following the landings, burials were made directly from the battlefield. As the Allied forces advanced, many graves were subsequently brought into this central location from the surrounding countryside, consolidating the resting places of those who fought and died in this critical campaign.
Today, the cemetery is a testament to the sacrifices made. It contains 2,316 Commonwealth burials from World War II, with 295 of them unidentified. There is also a single First World War burial, brought in from Chieti Communal Cemetery near Rome, underscoring the long history of conflict in the region. The cemetery was designed by Louis de Soissons, contributing to its serene and orderly appearance.
Maintaining a Sacred Space
Visitors often express their admiration for the meticulous attention to detail. Many reviews mention how well-kept the cemetery is, with some noting that even after years of visits, they have never found fault. The Italian people also seem to take great pride in caring for this sacred place, contributing to its peaceful and dignified atmosphere. This shared commitment ensures that the memories of the soldiers are kept alive and honored.
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