St. George, Camposbasso's patron saint, watches over this town that has seen and been through much in its time. The remnants of the different peoples who conquered and were conquered in the early days are prevalent in and around the city. At once a defensive stronghold, the city evolved into an important trading and administrative center. Campobasso saw its share of heavy fighting, also, during World War II. Fall of 1943 proved particularly devastating to the city as heavy bombardment knocked out many public buildings and took the lives of many, including the bishop of the diocese. Canadian troops were prevalent throughout this part of Italy, so much so, that the resulting administrative control made such an impression on the area that Campobasso was sometimes called "Canada town" or "Maple Leaf City". In fact, one of its sister cities now is Ottawa, Canada. As the war progressed and eventually ended the town spent much time and effort to clear the region of unexploded warheads. As a result, in 1995 the city was awarded the Bronze Medal for Civil Valour.
