ADRIATIC SEA
A JOURNEY ACROSS THREE SEAS
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The name Adriatic has ancient roots, and several theories explain its origin. Most historians believe it derives from the city of Adria, an important trading center between the Baltic and Black Seas as well as the Mediterranean area. An artificial canal connected Adria to the Venetian lagoon, facilitating protected navigation to the resurgences of the Timavo River. Initially, the Greeks called the northern part of the sea "Adrias Kolpos"(Gulf of Adria) and later extended the name along its entire length. Moreover, historian Paolo Diacono suggests a possible derivation from the Abruzzi town of Atri. Additionally, other sources indicate a Siculo-Illyrian origin, linking it to the god Adranòs. Furthermore, according to Varro, the word Adria may derive from the Etruscan "atrium," indicating the eastern position of the sea relative to the city of Adria. The name Adriatic retains the same etymological root in all the languages of the peoples bordering it.
WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT THIS PLACE
The waters of the Adriatic Sea, with their remarkable uniformity of composition and density, allow heat to propagate deeply through convective motions from the surface. The sea currents paint a dynamic picture: a consistent upward flow along the east coast, stretching from the Otranto Channel to the Gargano, contrasts with a downward current along the west coast, south of Ancona. Along the Veneto beaches, a north-south littoral current has been observed for centuries, while off the coast of Romagna, an independent vortex sometimes forms, adding to the sea’s intrigue.
The Adriatic is dominated by winds that shape its character: the bora from the northeast, the sirocco from the southeast, the maestral from the northwest on the Italian coasts, and the libeccio from the southwest in Albania. In the northern basin, the tides of the Adriatic are more pronounced than in the rest of the Mediterranean, creating a captivating rhythm that defines the region.
THIS PLACE IS IMPORTANT BECAUSE
Despite the recent decrease in the number of fishing vessels, the Adriatic Sea remains highly productive, contributing 50-60% of fish landed in Italy. This area is renowned for its production of flatfish and bivalve mollusks, including fasolari, a unique product found only in Italy.
SPECIAL TIPS
The east coast, overlooking the Adriatic Sea, offers an endless sequence of enchanting beaches characterised by varied landscapes, fine sand and a sea with crystal-clear waters inviting for a refreshing dip. From north to south, the Adriatic Coast attracts numerous tourists with its well-equipped holiday resorts that cater to the needs of every type of visitor.
