There are many versions on the informal names of Odessa and Rostov. But all of them are somehow connected with past the world of criminals.

About Odessa



At the end of the 19th century Odessa was a duty free zone and lively shopping centre in the South of Russia. It is therefore not surprising that Odessa has captivated not only Russian traders. From many countries rushed here musicians, artists, poets. Odessa, like a mother, all took and created the conditions for a long stay.

Where trade flourishes, there is grace for crooks, thieves, pickpockets, convicts, gamblers and speculators. All of them were attracted to easy money. But she needed somewhere to hide. The safest thing was to smuggle in Rostov. It was the nearest major city to Odessa.

About Rostov



As Odessa, Rostov became a large trade and industrial center in the South of Russia. On markets and railway stations also wielded large and small speculators. The criminal world flourished, a criminal felon seen from afar.

All their belongings thieves scams in Odessa, were transported to Rostov. There, as family fathers, carefully hid authoritative thieves in the law. Hence the name of the city Rostov-Papa.

For the crime of Rostov was the same an attractive city like Odessa. In crowded places deftly wielded pocket thieves and petty crooks. There were many "touring" Blackmailers and extortionists. Their tricks and all the above bounds.

For representatives of the criminal world in close proximity to the don river there are numerous brothels. Good conditions and favorable environment has attracted Rostov swindlers of all stripes.

Another version



In terms of crime Rostov and Odessa have always competed with each other. First leader was growth, then the roles were reversed.

After the largest Bank robbery in Odessa, Rostov organized the gathering. It was decided to do the great robbery of the Central market. The market started the rumor that the Church Council drops one of its towers. I started to panic, all trade was abandoned. Helter skelter was an opportune moment for the organizers of this unprecedented rampant gangster.

In the underworld it was the fashion for vagrancy. The police, when detaining criminals without a passport and she asked about my parents, they replied: "Mother, Odessa, and father – Rostov". In translation it means "Wandering from childhood, parents don't remember."

Therefore, the purpose of Rostov-on-don and Odessa, became known as "mom" and "dad." Although since 2009, the Union officially became legal. Now it's two sister cities.

"The fellowship will travel on official visits" (joke)