An Icon on Senigallia's velvet beach
S'nigaja, as the people of Senigallia call their town, has been The Place to Be for strolling along the beach since around 1850.
The first bathhouse was built in 1853. A wooden platform on stilts. This was in fact the forerunner of La Rotonda sul mare and this was the beginning of a tourist history. This platform stood in the sea a few hundred metres closer to the port than today. Meant for the wealthier classes of "La Epoque". Recreation by the sea was very innovative at the time.
On 30 Oct 1930, Senigallia was rocked by a devastating earthquake. The vast majority of the population was left homeless. Many houses had collapsed or were declared uninhabitable.
The wooden platform at sea was also significantly damaged. In the 1st World War, the platform went down completely as did almost all of Senigallia.
After the war, all kinds of variations appear on the design table, but Engineer Cardelli's plan for a new sea platform is given overall preference. Mainly because it is built made of better and more durable materials.
'The promenade on the waves' was named "La Rotonda sul Mare" and opened on 18 July 1933.
The new 'La Rotonda sul Mare' also gets a hard time again. Storms and earthquakes ensure that a lot of maintenance is needed.
During World War 2, the Rotonda was closed and used as a military warehouse.
Due to vacancy and neglect, by 1947 it is already time for a thorough restoration. But due to the slowness of bureaucracy, it takes almost seven years before work can begin.
In the 1950s-1960s, la Rotonda experiences golden years. It is a veritable temple to high-society. Pop stars and professional footballers often take part in all kinds of big parties.
In the late 1980s, La Rotonda slowly deteriorated. Eventually, it even led to closure.
And once again the bureaucratic mill turns. There must be money for yet another recovery plan.
Finally, only in 2006 does the inauguration of a true Icon of Senigallia take place. A fresh, bright, modern building meant for exhibitions and tourist promotion activities is opened with great triumph. A shining centrepiece has regained its former glory.
La Rotonda sul Mare borders the famous Spiaggia di Velluto, which translates as 'the velvet beach'. The name refers to the fine, soft sand that feels like velvet to your feet. The beach stretches for 13 kilometres and is a popular destination on the Adriatic coast.
Senigallie people are only too proud of their Rotonda sul mare. Over the years, this icon has been promoted in many ways.
Back in 1964, Fred Bongusto released the song Una Rotonda sul mare From. Listen
(Via Gherardi 53 Senigallia)
A nice souvenir shop with items referring to La Rotonda opened in the town centre of Senigallia in June 2024.
What about summer slippers, a beach bag or a lovely fresh perfume in a bottle shaped like a miniature 'La Rotonda'.
Every year in the 2nd half of August, a huge spectacular fireworks display takes place over the sea at La Rotonda.
We, along with our guests are of course there! With a full cooler bag of cold beer, wine and soft drinks, we set up camp on the beach in the evening. Not right by La Rotonda, where it is a crowded place, but at a respectable distance with still a fantastic view of the fireworks. Always a great evening by the sea.
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