WW2 Rome book rec
Here's a book I hope visitors to Rome read- it's about the German occupation of Rome after Mussolini was overthrown and Italy surrendered to the Allies and the city of Rome was seized by the Germans. Hitler did not want Rome- only major European city not bombed in WW2--to get into Allies' hands. The amphibious landing of Allied troops in Sicily was a rehearsal for Normandy and had high mortality. As Allied troops made their way north the battles against the Nazis were bloody- I really suggest a visit to the US cemeteries in Tunisia (those who died landing in Sicily); Nettuno near Anzio and 9 miles south of Florence huge US cemetery. Book also includes the role of Pope PiusXII and his role in the occupation.
Romans have not forgotten WW2- Priebke was found living in Bariloche, Argentina and extradited back to Rome to stand trial for his order to kill 335 Roman men and boys in the Ardeatine caves (right near catacombs tourists visit); machine gun shrapnel visible on columns right above cafe on Victor Emmanuel monument overlooking the Forum; stumbling stones throughout the city. A lot of visitors go to Rome for the amazing ancient history but the more modern history is also very poignant. I was just in Rome and went to the Rome Open tennis tournament at the Foro Italico where I spent many years as a kid swimming and training and still can't believe that the giant modern obelisk with Mussolini's name is there. It's complex- it's important history and wow there it is in your face.
The Battle for Rome by Robert Katz- not a pedantic read- highly recommend this book.