First Battle of the Isonzo

The First Battle of the Isonzo was fought between Italy and Austria-Hungary on the northeastern Italian Front from 23 June to 7 July 1915. The Italian Army aimed to drive the Austrians from defensive positions along the Soča (Isonzo) river and surrounding mountains, hoping to capture Trieste. Despite a 2:1 numerical advantage, the Italian offensive failed due to frontal assaults after short artillery barrages against uphill, barbed-wire-protected positions.

Italian forces took Krn (Monte Nero), the Kolovrat Plateau, and highlands around Bovec, but could not dislodge Austro-Hungarian troops from high ground between Tolmin and the Soča River. The heaviest fighting occurred around Gorizia, with street-by-street urban combat. Austro-Hungarian commanders Géza Lukachich von Somorja and Novak von Arienti distinguished themselves by retaking Redipuglia and Hill 383 respectively. Two reinforcement divisions ended Italian breakthrough efforts, and final gains were minimal.