The ‘Fronte Castellano’ Itinerary – The Great War Itineraries

A route of about one hour’s walking time, offering the opportunity to visit two significant historical sites from the First World War, when this area marked the border between the Kingdom of Italy and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
This itinerary winds through the vegetable gardens and countryside surrounding the village of Castel Condino, providing an authentic glimpse into its rural life. The first historical site encountered along the trail is the ‘Osservatorio’ observation post, which was restored and redeveloped between 2006 and 2007. Visitors are welcomed by a small park equipped with a drinking fountain and two wooden tables, and can also explore an Italian military site dating back to the Great War (1915–1918). This observation point, facing north towards Lardaro – where the line of Austro-Hungarian forts was located – consists of a small concrete structure accessed by a staircase. An inscription is still visible on its dome, bearing the date ‘4 o’clock – 22 June 1918’.
The walk continues along an asphalt road until reaching the second historical site, the concrete trenches. Equipped with concrete roofing, they feature small rifle loopholes oriented towards the north. Thanks to restoration work, both the trenches and their internal passages can be visited.
Not to be missed: the ‘Osservatorio’ (oservation post)
During the war, this structure played a strategically crucial role, allowing troops to monitor enemy positions and accurately adjust artillery fire. Protected by the concrete structure, soldiers could observe the enemy through a narrow embrasure. The post was also carefully camouflaged among the surrounding vegetation, enhancing its effectiveness. At its base is a cave carved into the rock, with an entrance framed by a lintel bearing the emblem of the Chieti Brigade, along with the inscription ‘123 FANTERIA’ (123rd Infantry). Adjacent to the cave are several small rooms that once served as accommodation for the garrison.