The Great War Trail is an emotional and immersive route that begins in the heart of Luserna, a small Cimbrian village that in 1915 suddenly found itself on the front line when war broke out between Austria and Italy. It was here, on 25 May 1915, that the first civilian casualties of the conflict occurred—an event that deeply marked the local community and that today is remembered through a trail designed to share, with respect and immediacy, the stories of those who lived through those dramatic years.
The itinerary, suitable for families with children aged 6 and up as well as school groups, winds through forests, meadows and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Alpe Cimbra. Along the way, visitors encounter twenty‑eight metal silhouettes enriched with terracotta details, each telling a real-life episode from the daily experiences of Luserna’s inhabitants before, during and after the Great War. It is an open‑air museum where art, memory and nature come together.
From the centre of Luserna to the front‑line positions
The trail begins in Luserna’s main square, where local history meets the broader European context. From here, a well-marked path leads to key Austro‑Hungarian military sites, including:
- Forte Lusern (Werk Lusern), one of the most important fortifications of the imperial defensive system
- the Oberwiesen and Viaz outposts, advanced positions controlling the plateau
- several panoramic viewpoints offering striking vistas over the village and surrounding mountains
The route alternates between woodland stretches and open clearings, creating a pleasant and varied rhythm ideal for a half‑day excursion.
A didactic journey through nature and memory
The trail is designed as a narrative journey: each metal silhouette represents a real person and shares a short testimony, turning the walk into an immersive experience. The stories are simple, direct and often moving, helping visitors understand how the war forever changed the life of the Cimbrian community.
The itinerary ends on the eastern side of Luserna, completing a loop of about 5 km (average duration 2 hours, minimal elevation gain), perfect for those seeking an accessible yet meaningful cultural hike.
