North Macedonia, Skopje – Cultural Border Between Europe and Asia
If you decide to visit North Macedonia, you will definitely come to the capital of Skopje. Direct flights are from Bratislava, with a transfer from Prague or from Vienna. For example, you can also choose a way through Bulgarian Sofia. I think about 2-3 days in Skopje will be with the museum and visit the local restaurants richly enough. And then I would recommend you to go at least for a day trip to Orichid or somewhere in the countryside.
Skopje itself is a very interesting city. It has a relatively small center, everywhere you get on foot, MHD. The city is divided by the Vardar River into 2 parts, which are quite different both from architecture and from the origin of the population - the modern part and the older part in the Turkish style. It could be said that it is such an imaginary cultural boundary between Europe and Asia. In the 1960s Skopje was hit by an earthquake that completely destroyed part of the center. Reconstruction is still ongoing.
Not far from the main railway station is the memorial house of Mother Teresa, who was born here. From here, it is a stone's throw away from the main square. You can see some huge statues in the square, and the statue of Alexander the Great is the dominant feature. From here, you can cross the Stone Bridge towards the local university via the so-called Turkish quartz. Typical one-storey buildings, souvenir shops, oriental spices or delicious food. Everybody really chooses. Do not forget to visit the former Turkish fortress.
For lovers of hikes and hikes I would recommend the climb to the hill of Vodno, from where there is a wonderful view of the whole city. At the top is a large cross that can be seen from anywhere in Skopje. During the summer season, the cable car runs, and you only have to walk on the winter.
Other trips around Skopje that you should not miss are Kitka Mountains, Mother Canyon or all-day trip to Ochrid.
GPS: 42°00'07.0"N 21°26'08.4"E
Text and photos: Martina Koşar
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