Isonzo, Battles of the

Series of battles between Italian and Austrian forces 1915–17 on the front established along the Isonzo River. Despite repeated attacks and major operations by both sides, the front remained largely static.

The first battle In June 1915 was an Italian attack across the river that made some gains until bad weather prevented any further movement. The second battle July–September 1915 began with an Italian thrust against the fortifications of Gorizia, followed by an attack in the Carso region. They failed at Gorizia but took a great deal of ground and prisoners in the Carso before the battle died away. The third battle in October 1915 began with a heavy Italian artillery bombardment along the whole line, followed by further operations against Gorizia and the Carso until winter weather prevented further movement. The fourth battle August–October 1916 was launched with another attack against Gorizia and its surrounding defences, which fell to the Italians 9 August. An advance in the Carso region gained ground in the direction of Trieste. The fifth battle opened in May 1917 with an Italian thrust against the Austrian line north of Goriza. This made some gains but was halted by a powerful Austrian counterattack after which the lines stabilized.