The premiere of the latest production by the Institute of National Remembrance – the documentary series Trail of Hope. The Battle of Monte Cassino”– took place at the Atlantic Cinema in Warsaw on 20 March 2026.
The event was opened by Dr Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the IPN, who emphasized the significance of preserving the memory of Poland’s military effort during the Second World War.
Trail of Hope. The Battle of Monte Cassino is a story of resilience, determination, and the road to freedom taken by the soldiers of the 2nd Polish Corps. It is our duty today to recall this history and pass it on to future generations, he stated.
During the premiere, two episodes from the five-part series were screened, followed by a discussion with the director, Tomasz Łysiak. The meeting was moderated by Dr Adam Pleskaczyński, Director of the IPN National Education Office.
This is not merely a story about the battle itself, but about the entire journey – from Soviet labor camps, through the Middle East, to the Battle of Monte Cassino. We wanted to show the fate of individuals entangled in the course of great history, the director emphasized.
The production presents the story of the soldiers of the 2nd Polish Corps – individuals who, after experiencing deportation and exile to the USSR, joined General Anders’ army and went on to take part in one of the most significant battles of the Second World War. The creators stress that it was essential to capture not only the facts, but also the emotions accompanying these key moments.
We wanted this to be a story that is accessible to contemporary audiences, especially younger viewers, said Tomasz Łysiak.
The series is based on numerous testimonies, including accounts from veterans, their families, historians, and residents of Italy. As a result, it portrays not only the course of the fighting, but also the lasting memory of Polish soldiers.
Monte Cassino is a symbol – of courage, determination, and the price that Poles paid for freedom. This story still needs to be told,” it was noted during the discussion.
The event was attended by Agnieszka Jędrzak, Undersecretary of State at the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland.
Trail of Hope. The Battle of Monte Cassino is a modern production that guides viewers through the experiences of Poles during the Second World War – from deportation deep into the Soviet Union, through the formation of the army, to the victory in Italy.
The Warsaw premiere constituted an important element of the educational activities of the Institute of National Remembrance, whose mission is to promote knowledge of Polish history and to build historical awareness among future generations.
Watch the trailer: