If you are staying in Lake Garda, you cannot miss this place of solemn respect and contemplation. Here, the well-maintained grounds and quiet atmosphere allow visitors to honour the memory of those who died serving their country.
What brings peace now was wrought by war: overlooking the hills of Lake Garda’s eastern shore, the German Military Cemetery of Costermano is among the most important monuments of its kind in Italy.
Established in 1967, the cemetery is a peaceful place where around 20,000 German soldiers from the Second World War are laid to rest. Buried in different locations in Northern Italy, they were moved here to be honoured and to offer a place of remembrance and reflection on the human cost of conflict. The German nonprofit organisation Volksbund Deutsche Kriegsgräberfürsorge (German War Graves Commission) oversees the cemetery's upkeep.
Upon entering, a dedicated room displays photos and videos, providing historical context and information about key figures of the era. It's important to note that the remains of some SS war criminals are also interred here, a stark reminder that death transcends rank or ideology. You will also find a register listing the names of all the soldiers buried, as well as their location in the cemetery. Unfortunately, you will be impressed by the dimensions of this book, a testament to the immense pain that lies in this place.
Stepping into the cemetery itself, the initial impact is very strong: consisting of a common grave and burial grounds developed on three terraces, the essential and well-kept architecture will bring on many different feelings. The simple, geometric layout of the headstones arranged across a vast green expanse evokes a profound sense of composure and solemn respect. The attentive care given to the grounds and the site’s cleanliness immediately stand out. Shaded benches for quiet reflection, a chapel and a terrace overlooking the lake complete the picture.
If you are enjoying a spring break in Lake Garda, don’t miss out on the stunning nuances of this place in March. As the heather blossoms, the cemetery turns pink and becomes a feast for the eyes – definitely worthy of capture.
Looking at the epigraphs standing on each grave, you will soon notice that the deaths almost always occurred between 1944 and 1945, reflecting the war's most brutal years. Personal touches like flowers and floral ornaments placed on some graves speak to the enduring love and remembrance of family members who return, even after eight decades, to pay their respects.
The cemetery is easily reachable by car, bus, or bike. For a more scenic option, you can also enjoy the enchanting path along the nearby Valle dei Mulini. Starting from Garda, follow Via Don Gnocchi and Via della Pace towards Costermano. Turn left onto Via Valtesina, and the path will lead you directly to the center of Costermano. From there, head towards Baesse and ultimately the Military Cemetery. After your visit, descend the valley towards Giare to return to your starting point.
The cemetery is open daily from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm. While a visit typically takes about 30 minutes, plan extra time to fully absorb the atmosphere and contemplate the significance of this place.
The silence that reigns here serves as a powerful reminder of war’s horrors and the enduring need to build a world based on dialogue, mutual understanding, and tolerance: a message of hope that resonates loudly in this peaceful place that is definitely worth a visit.
