Explora la cultura de North Macedonia: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de North Macedonia a través de sus museos y monumentos.
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A World Heritage Site for its nature and culture, Lake Ohrid and the city of the same name are the jewel of the country. With its 365 churches (one for each day of the year), its fortress and its Roman amphitheater, it is a magical place.
North Macedonia is a hidden gem on the Balkan Peninsula, a country where ancient history and untouched nature intertwine. It is home to Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest in Europe, vibrant cities displaying a rich tapestry of Ottoman and Yugoslav influences, and rugged mountains that invite adventure.
Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of North Macedonia
North Macedonia is a hidden gem on the Balkan Peninsula, a country where ancient history and untouched nature intertwine. It is home to Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest in Europe, vibrant cities displaying a rich tapestry of Ottoman and Yugoslav influences, and rugged mountains that invite adventure.
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A World Heritage Site for its nature and culture, Lake Ohrid and the city of the same name are the jewel of the country. With its 365 churches (one for each day of the year), its fortress and its Roman amphitheater, it is a magical place.
The capital is a unique experience. From the labyrinthine Ottoman bazaar and the Kale Fortress, to the grandeur of its new monuments and museums, Skopje leaves no one indifferent. It is also the hometown of Mother Teresa.
Matka Canyon is ideal for kayaking and caving. Mavrovo National Park offers alpine landscapes, hiking and the famous semi-submerged church. Pelister National Park is known for its glacial lakes, the 'Eyes of Pelister'.
Sailing on Lake Ohrid
Take a boat to navigate the crystal clear waters of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest in the world. The experience culminates with the view from the water of the Monastery of St. John (Sveti Jovan) in Kaneo, perched on a cliff. It is the most iconic and beautiful image of the country.
Explore Skopje Contrast
Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija), full of craft shops, tea houses and mosques. Then, cross the Stone Bridge to find yourself in a completely different world: huge statues of national heroes, neoclassical buildings and triumphal arches, the result of the controversial 'Skopje 2014' project.
Kayaking in Matka Canyon
A short distance from Skopje is this impressive canyon. Renting a kayak and paddling through its calm emerald waters, between vertical rock walls, is a perfect getaway. You can also visit Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest underwater caves in the world.
Visit the Monastery of Saint Naum
On the southern shore of Lake Ohrid, this beautiful monastery is an oasis of peace. It is famous for the peacocks that roam freely in its gardens and for the tomb of Saint Naum, where, according to legend, you can still hear his heartbeat if you rest your ear on it.
Feel the atmosphere of Shirok Sokak in Bitola
Walking along the elegant Shirok Sokak pedestrian street in Bitola is like stepping back into the 'era of the consuls', when the city was an important diplomatic and cultural center. Its neoclassical and baroque buildings, its cafes and its relaxed atmosphere make it one of the most charming cities in the country.
Learn to make (or at least, love) the 'Ajvar'
'Ajvar', a paste of roasted red peppers, is the national condiment. In the fall, families gather for the ritual of roasting peppers and preparing large quantities for the winter. Trying the different homemade varieties is a delicious immersion in the local culture.
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Currency
The official currency is the Macedonian Denar (MKD). Although some tourist places may accept euros, it is better to use the local currency for daily transactions. Payment by card is common in cities, but it is good to carry cash for rural areas.
Internal Transportation
The bus network is the cheapest and most efficient way to travel around the country, connecting all cities. Taxis are also affordable, especially in cities, but it is advisable to agree on the price beforehand or make sure they use the meter.
Language
The official language is Macedonian, a Slavic language. The Albanian is also co-official. English is quite common among young people and in the tourism sector. Many also understand Serbian/Croatian.
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