Rousse is the biggest Bulgarian city on
the Danube river (population: approx.180.000). Due to its
favorite location it is a significant industrial, commercial
and transport hub. The only bridge that spans the river
connecting Bulgaria with Romania is situated in the outskirts
of the city. The river, with the impact it had on the people's
lifestyle, played an important role in the developmnet of
Rousse; even the name of the city is related to it: its
root 'rou' is of Indo-European origin and means 'river'
or 'flow'.
The
Ancient Romans called it Sexaginta Prista - the port of
the sixty (ships). After the Liberation (1878) the town
gradually gained momentum - industrial output increased
and commercial ties were established with other countries
(mainly, Gemany and Austria).
Many novelties that entered Bulgaria were first introduced
in Rousse: - The first movie house.
- The first railway line (which still connect Rousse with
the Black Sea port city of Varna).
- The first Chamber of Commerce.
- The first fleet, etcetera.
Go up to the TV Tower's bar, and you'll
be able to take very nice pictures of the whole town, the
river Danube and Romania which is seen on the other side.
100 km from Rousse is situated the Sreburna
Lake Birds Natural Reserve. Predominating species is the
pelican.
The Lipnik Lake
It is situated 10 km from Rousse.
The area is quite picturesque with a lot of pine trees in
the surroundings. There's a restaurant constructed in the
Old Bulgarian style. It serves exclusively traditional Bulgarian
dishes.
