The Republic of North Macedonia
Macedonia is one of the most unexplored European countries. There are no crowds of tourists on the streets, so the local population gladly welcomes every guest. Macedonia is known as one of the world's cultural centers: on its territory, there are many ancient and medieval monuments. However, people also come here for the sake of natural beauty: lakes, forests, mountains — the country has plenty of them.
General information
Capital: | Population: | Official language: | Currency: | Territory: |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skopje | 2 073 702 | Macedonian, Albanian | Macedonian denar | 25 333 km² |
Geography
Map Macedonia
What to see and where?
Skopje
The capital of the Republic of Macedonia is Skopje, located in the north of the country, a few kilometers from the Serbian border. In 1963, there was an earthquake, which destroyed three-quarters of the city, and almost all historical sights. As part of the "Skopje 2014" project, the government has planned to improve the city, with new monuments, fountains, sculptures, and museums. The "Warrior on a Horse" fountain monument, more than 15 meters high, is the trademark of Skopje. Not far from it, there is the sculpture of Byzantine Emperor Justinian. Then you can see the Stone Bridge, built in the VI century, aiming to connect the old part of the city with the new one. When crossing it, look down to see the "Bathing Girls" — bronze sculptures frozen in motion. The bridge survived the earthquake and has preserved the Mother Teresa Memorial House and the Kale Fortress with its beautiful view.Bitola
Bitola is the second-largest city in Macedonia. It is located near the border with Greece on a low mountain plateau. The most famous attraction is the ruins of the ancient city of Heraclea Lyncestis. Of course, not much is left of the ancient buildings, but here you can see the Roman amphitheater, baths, and portico. These lands often suffered from the invasion of the Tatars, so there are mosques left on the territory. The Gazi Hajdar Kadi Mosque is the most famous one, built in the middle of the XVI century. In the same period, a clock was installed in the center of the city, which to this day, gathers Muslims for prayer.
Kumanovo
Another picturesque town in Northern Macedonia is Kumanovo, 35 km north of Skopje. The area is famous for its mineral water, which was named after the town — "Kumanovka". The main streets of Kumanovo still bear the history to this day: the majority of the buildings date back to the XIX century. You can learn more about Kumanovo in the national museum. And if you have time, go and see Kokino, an archaeological monument, which is about 3800 years old.
Ohrid
Ohrid is a town on the shore of the blue lake of the same name, with picturesque houses around it. The lake is one of the most famous sights in Europe and is under UNESCO protection. The city itself is the main resort center of Macedonia. The ancient amphitheater, where magical musical evenings are held, is a real trademark. A beautiful view opens from Samoil's Fortress, which is often depicted on souvenir cards. Ohrid is home to the Robevi House, built in the XIX century. The building is an example of classical architecture, inside which there is a national museum with priceless artifacts. Here you can see gold postmortem masks, minted silver cups, bronze helmets, and collections of coins.
Tetovo
Tetovo is a city in northwest Macedonia, located at the foot of the Šar Mountains. It was founded around the Church of the Holy Virgin in the XIII century as a small Orthodox town. But, already in the XIV century, the Ottoman Empire conquered these lands, after which the rapid construction of mosques, baths, and markets began. The monastery of the Islamic order of Bektashi dervishes — the Arabati Baba Teḱeand and the Decorated Mosque (Šarena Džamija) remained to this day. There are many cozy cafes in Tetovo, the owners of which offer to taste local dishes — do not deny yourself this pleasure.
National peculiarities of the citizens of Macedonia
- Macedonians are hardworking, especially when it comes to agricultural work. Most of the country's population lives in rural areas.
- The people of Macedonia are patriotic: they are proud to talk about their country and respond with enthusiasm when their country is mentioned in the media.
- Macedonians are friendly, and they can easily start a conversation even with strangers. They take great pleasure in showing a foreigner their home and displaying their hospitality.
- In Macedonia, there are much more men than women, so the representatives of the fair sex are very popular.
- The Macedonians are a musical nation. The summer festival in Ohrid brings together musicians from all over the world.
- Macedonians celebrate any holiday with the national dance "Teshkoto", to the sound of bagpipes and tapan. According to the ancient custom, Macedonians often dance on tables.
Cities in Macedonia
Attractions
A countless number of monasteries and churches, unique landscapes of Lake Ohrid, beautiful national parks — this is charming Macedonia, which is waiting for its guests.
The best time to visit Macedonia
Hotels in Macedonia
