Isonzo Front – from the Alps to the Adriatic

In 2014, the world commemorates the 100th anniversary of the breakout of World War I, and a year later, Slovenia will commemorate the centenary of the Isonzo Front, which is considered one of the toughest battles to have been fought in one of the most beautiful alpine valleys that is the valley of the emerald green Soča river. On this important anniversary, Slovenia wishes to present this important historical heritage, and for visitors to takes the path of peace, from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic.

The area of the upper valley of the River Soča – considered one of the most beautiful and cleanest rivers in Europe with its emerald colour purity – was part of the Isonzo Front during the in the First World War in Slovenia, and is considered one of the toughest battles of the First World War due to its mountainous terrain.

Numerous trenches, fortifications, caves, memorials, military cemeteries, have survived from this period, with this important cultural and historical heritage represented by several museums, the great outdoors, and exhibitions. Today, their stories, feelings and stories form the backbone for the Walk of Peace from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic, which is run by the Paths of Peace Foundation.

The trail is marked uniformly, and is suitable for hikers and cyclists alike. Major attractions can be accessed by car or bus. The Path of Peace is the perfect choice for those who want to actively spend their free time taking in the magnificent views and the beauties of nature, learning about history and culture, meeting the locals, experiencing life their nowadays and tasting the local delicacies - these are all experiences which are presented beautifully in the short promotional film, Path of Peace. Guided tours with the local tour guides are recommended.

At the headquarters of the Foundation in Kobarid a new interactive information center opened its doors, which serves as an excellent base for exploring the paths of peace; only a few metres away there is the recognized and garlanded Kobarid Museum, which offers visitors the most comprehensive account of the Isonzo Front, mountain warfare in the Julian Alps and the 12 Isonzo battles.

Did you know that the world-famous American writer, Ernest Hemingway, chose the Isonzo Front to be the scene of action for his historical novel "A Farewell to Arms"? Despite the fact that Hemingway probably did not fight on the Isonzo front, there is a possibility that he visited these places after the First World War had concluded. This is demonstrated by the photo of a young American soldier, which local residents claim is Hemingway himself. The novel contains many autobiographical elements. Which are true and which are not?

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