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Polish contribution added, will look for online references to add
The breakthrough at Cassino meant that the Allies were able (within a week's time) to join up with the Anzio beach head and then to capture Rome. The loss did considerable damage to Axis morale.
The breakthrough at Cassino meant that the Allies were able (within a week's time) to join up with the Anzio beach head and then to capture Rome. The loss did considerable damage to Axis morale.
==The Monte Cassino Cross==
Initial allied assaults led by American and British forces were unable to take Monte Cassino Abbey from the Germans. For the final assault on the Abbey the Polish 2nd Corps took their place and were successful in taking Monte Cassino after three weeks of fierce fighting and exposure to heavy enemy fire from the mountainous terrain around the Abbey.
Upon taking the Abbey, the Poles raised the flag of Poland over the ruins of the monastery.
To commemorate the victory and the gallantry of their soldiers, the Polish government (then in exile) created the Monte Cassino Cross to commemorate those who fought in the campaign. A total of 48,498 crosses were awarded to Polish soldiers who took part in the battle.
==Rebuilding of the Abbey==
[[Image:Monstry.gif|left|2000px|thumb|Abbey Montecassino in 1944.]]The ancient monastery had been reduced to cinders and rubble. The Abbey was rebuilt in the following decade according to the ancient architectural pattern.
[[Image:Monstry.gif|left|2000px|thumb|Abbey Montecassino in 1944.]]The ancient monastery had been reduced to cinders and rubble. The Abbey was rebuilt in the following decade according to the ancient architectural pattern.
[[Image:AbbeyMontecassino.jpg |right|250px|thumb|Modern Abbey Montecassino]]
[[Image:AbbeyMontecassino.jpg |right|250px|thumb|Modern Abbey Montecassino]]
[[Category:World War II Battles]]
[[Category:World War II Battles]]