Twin Cities
The flags below represent the five cities around the world that are twinned with Dundee, Scotland. The concept of twinning cities was fostered after WWII in a bid to rebuild international relationships. Twinning allows understanding through promotion of cultural, recreational, educational and economic exchanges. For two cities to twin both places should be of a comparable size and have certain key features in common such as the geographical situation or industry skills.
Read about Dundee's twin cities and follow the links to find out more.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexandria,Virginia
Established in 1695 as a British Colony, Alexandria is situated across the Potomac river 6 miles south of Washington DC. This strategic area was heavily occupied during the Civil War. However, the tobacco fields have been replaced with urban development that reflects its proximity to the political capital. The area is known for its trade associations, similar to Dundee's Nine Trades, established as business networks that promote standardisation. The historic Old Town of the city contains high class boutiques, antique shops and theatres reflecting the high income earners who live in this 7th largest independent city. The population of 128,280 live in an area of 39.9 square kilometres.
Twinned with Dundee in 1974 Alexandria has 3 other twin cities.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dubai
Dubai is one of the United Arab Emirates and is situated along the south coast of the Persian Gulf. Starting at sea level and surrounded by desert Dubai occupies over 4,114 square kilometres supporting a population of 1,204,000. The Dubai Creek runs through the city. The earliest reference to the name Dubai dates from 1095 when it was a trading port, possibly in mangoes. Until the 1930s it was a major exporter of pearls.
Twinned with Dundee in 2004 Dubai has 25 other twin cities.
www.dundee-nablus.org.uk/index.html
Founded by the Roman Emperor, Vespasian, in 72CE, Nablus was incorporated into a British Mandate of Palestine in 1922. However, in 1947 it became an Arab State. An historic clock tower sits in the middle of the now urbanised centre. The area is known for its soap production, leather tanning and textile manufacturing. The population of 134,000 live in an area of 28.6 square kilometres.
Twinned with Dundee in 1980 Nablus has 9 other twin cities.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orleans,_France http://www.dundeecity.gov.uk/dundeecity/uploaded_publications/publication_1125.pdf http://www.tourisme-orleans.com/fr/orleans-decouvrir-orleans/70-1-au-fil-du-temps.html
80km south of Paris, this Orleanais capital is a city of two halves. It is divided by the flowing Loire but reconnected by the five bridges, one of which carries the tram system. Although a strategic point since the Romans occupied the town it was the addition of the first bridge that turned Orleans into a prosperous trading port. Primarily known as the town relieved by Joan of Arc, (with help from her Scottish archers and captains), the town has another Scottish connection. In 1560 the young King of France, Francis II, died at the Hotel Groslot (Town Hall) with his bride Mary Stewart, Queen of Scots, at his side. The northern town contains the cathedral established by Henri IV whilst the southern expansion contains a small hill, the university Le Source and the renowned Parc Floral. The population of 113,130 live within an area of 27.48 square kilometres. The surrounding district is fertile agricultural land.
Twinned with Dundee in 1946 Orleans has 11 other twin cities.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Würzburg
Situated in the wine-making region of Franconia in northern Bavaria, Wurzburg is the capital of Lower Franconia. The city is divided by the Main River which flows into the Rhine then the Danube. Much of this river's 329 miles actually creates the coastline of Bavaria. The population of 134,440 live within an area of 87.63 square kilometres. A fortress sits atop one hill while the grand Baroque church sits atop another, both of which can be reached by the Main Bridge. The former palace of the Princebishops is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. No less than eight Nobel Prize Winners have eminated from the city's university, which was founded in 1402. They awarded an honorary Phd to Alexander Graham Bell for his scientific achievement. In addition to over 100 educational institutions there are also high-tech and science parks. Other attractions include a botanic garden dating back to 1696. Many of the 100 churches are in a variety of architectural styles. Their cathedral is on the same site as the original 8th century church. Due to WWII bomb damage the city had to be rebuilt but the men were either dead or prisoners - so the women rebuilt the city. The city is now a major hub on the national rail network and the starting point for the most famous German tourist route; the Romantic Road.
Twinned with Dundee in 1962 Wurzburg has 9 twin cities.
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Nablus, Palestine
