Roseto degli Abruzzi

Sister cities

• Jawor

History

The name of the city was decreed to be Rosburgo by decree of King Umberto I of Italy in 1877. Later the name fell into disfavor, especially in military circles, because it sounded Austrian, a bitter enemy of Italy during World War I, and in 1927 the city was rechristened with its current name. The name derives in part from the large numbers and varieties of rose and oleander trees which grace the byways and balconies of the city's residents. Tourism is the main economic activity in terms of revenue generated. Roseto's coastline, including an area known as Cologna, has more than of beaches available for swimming and other water activities. After the end of World War Two - September to December 1945 - units of the Polish II Corps were stationed in and around Roseto while they awaited news on their post-war future and the town was the venue of music concerts, sports fixtures and church services for the now displaced Polish forces.

Geography

A major north–south rail line running along the coast passes through Roseto connecting it to the provincial capitals of Pescara and Teramo. Towns nearby include Atri, Giulianova, Morro d'Oro, Mosciano Sant'Angelo, Notaresco and Pineto. Roseto is a popular and highly developed seaside location known throughout Italy and the world. It is sometimes referred to as Lido delle Rose (Beach of the Roses). More recently it has been associated with the "Bandiera Blu" (The Blue Banner).