Is Skopje Worth Visiting?

Skopje is the capital of North Macedonia and one of the oldest cities in Europe. It’s a city with a rich history and cultural heritage that’s been influenced by different empires and civilizations throughout the centuries. Skopje has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, mainly due to a government-led initiative that aimed to modernize the city and make it more attractive to tourists. However, this transformation was met with mixed reactions from locals and tourists alike. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether Skopje is worth visiting and what you should expect if you decide to go.

The Good

Skopje offers a unique blend of old and new, with modern buildings and attractions standing alongside historic landmarks and monuments. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Millennium Cross, a 66-meter-high monument located on the Vodno Mountain overlooking Skopje. The cross offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.Another must-see attraction is the Skopje Fortress, also known as Kale Fortress. The fortress dates back to the 6th century and has been reconstructed several times throughout history. Today, it’s a popular tourist spot and offers great views of the city and the Vardar river.If you’re interested in history and culture, Skopje has plenty to offer. The Old Bazaar is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and shops that sell everything from souvenirs to handmade crafts. The bazaar dates back to the Ottoman period and is one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the Balkans.For art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit. The museum features a collection of modern and contemporary art from North Macedonia and other parts of the world. The building itself is a work of art, with its modern design and glass facade standing out among the city’s traditional architecture.

The Bad

Skopje’s transformation has been controversial, with some arguing that it has erased the city’s history and cultural heritage. Many of the new buildings and monuments have a kitschy, Disney-like feel to them, and some locals feel that they don’t reflect the true character of the city.Another issue is the air pollution. Skopje has some of the highest levels of air pollution in Europe, which can make it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities, especially during the winter months.Finally, some visitors have reported feeling unsafe in the city, particularly at night. Pickpocketing and other petty crimes are not uncommon, and tourists are advised to take precautions, such as keeping their valuables close and avoiding deserted areas.

The Verdict

So, is Skopje worth visiting? The answer is yes, but with caveats. Skopje has a unique character and cultural heritage that’s worth experiencing, but it also has its downsides, such as air pollution and safety concerns. If you do decide to visit, make sure to do your research and plan accordingly. Stay in a safe neighborhood, avoid walking alone at night, and use common sense when it comes to your belongings.Overall, Skopje is an up-and-coming city that’s worth keeping an eye on. With ongoing development plans, it’s likely that the city will continue to evolve in the coming years. Whether that’s a good thing or not is yet to be seen, but for now, Skopje remains a fascinating and unique destination in Europe.

An Insider’s Guide to Skopje

Skopje is the capital city of North Macedonia, a small Balkan country in Southeastern Europe. This city has a rich history spanning over 2,000 years, from the ancient Roman period to the Ottoman era and beyond. However, Skopje is also one of the most controversial cities in Europe, with dramatic transformations in the past decade that have divided public opinion. Despite all this, Skopje is worth visiting for its unique blend of old and new, vibrant energy, and hospitable locals. This insider’s guide will take you through some of the best places to visit, eat, and experience in Skopje.

Local Attractions

Skopje is a city of contrasts, which is evident as soon as you start exploring its attractions. One must-visit place is the Old Bazaar, a maze of narrow streets, caravanserais, mosques, and artisan shops that dates back to the Ottoman Empire. Here, you can try local sweets like baklava, shop for souvenirs, or visit the Museum of Macedonia, which showcases the country’s history and culture.

Another must-see landmark is the imposing Stone Bridge, which spans the Vardar River and connects the Old Bazaar with the modern city center. Walking across the bridge at sunset is a memorable experience, with stunning views of the river and the city skyline.

For more history, visit the Kale Fortress, a medieval citadel that has served as a strategic landmark for centuries. Here, you can explore the ruins of the fortress walls, towers, and gates, and get a glimpse of Skopje’s past.

Of course, no trip to Skopje is complete without visiting the controversial Skopje 2014 project, a grandiose urban renewal project that aimed to redesign the city’s architectural landscape with neoclassical and Baroque-style buildings, monuments, and statues. Love it or hate it, Skopje 2014 is a testament to the city’s ambition and creativity.

Dining Spots

Skopje boasts a diverse mix of cuisines, influenced by its Ottoman, Balkan, and Mediterranean heritage. However, traditional Macedonian food is a must-try, with hearty dishes like tavche gravche (baked beans), ajvar (red pepper relish), and tarator (cold yogurt and cucumber soup).

For a local experience, head to Kapan An, a family-run restaurant in the Old Bazaar that serves authentic Macedonian cooking. Try their selsko meso (grilled meat in a clay pot) or pastrmajlija (flatbread with spicy dried beef). If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, book a table at Amfora, a fusion restaurant that blends traditional Macedonian cuisine with international flavors.

For a drink, check out Skopje’s thriving coffee bar scene, with cozy cafés that serve strong Turkish coffee, Italian-style cappuccinos, and local herbal teas. Try Caffe de Paris in the downtown area, or Cafe Nirvana in the heart of the Old Bazaar.

Cultural Experiences

Skopje is a cultural melting pot, with a vibrant arts scene that embraces traditional and contemporary forms. One of the best places to experience this is the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features exhibitions of Macedonian and international artists in a spacious modernist building.

For music lovers, Skopje offers a plethora of options, from traditional folk music to rock and jazz. Check out the schedule at MKC, a popular youth cultural center that hosts concerts, film screenings, and exhibitions. You can also visit the Philharmonic Orchestra of Macedonia, which performs classical music in the newly-built concert hall.

Macedonian wine is another cultural highlight, with several wineries in the surrounding hills that offer tastings and tours. Visit Popova Kula Winery in Demir Kapija, a scenic region famous for its red wines and stunning views of the Vardar River.

Local History

Skopje has a complex and layered history that reflects the turbulent events of the 20th century. One of the most significant moments was the 1963 earthquake that destroyed much of the city, leaving thousands dead and homeless. The earthquake also triggered a massive rebuilding effort that saw Skopje emerge as a modernist showcase.

The city was also a hub of political and cultural activity during the Yugoslav era, with Tito’s Mausoleum being one of the most visited sights. Today, the mausoleum is closed, but you can still see the Palace of the Presidency and the Museum of the Revolution, which showcase the country’s socialist past.

Finally, Skopje is also known for being the birthplace of Mother Teresa, the Catholic nun who devoted her life to serving the poor. Visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa to learn more about her life and work.

Off the Beaten Path

Skopje is a city that rewards curious travelers who venture beyond the tourist hotspots. A few hidden gems worth exploring include:

– The Matka Canyon, a stunning natural reserve with crystal-clear waters, hiking trails, and monasteries. Take a boat tour, go kayaking, or hike the Vrelo Cave for a unique adventure.

– The Jewish Cemetery and Holocaust Memorial, a solemn place that commemorates the Jewish victims of the Second World War. The cemetery dates back to the 15th century and is one of the largest in the Balkans.

– The Čaršija Sweets Shop, a tiny pastry shop in the Old Bazaar that serves some of the best baklava and lokum (Turkish delight) in town. Have a sweet break and chat with the friendly owners.

– The Skopje Railway Station, a Brutalist masterpiece that combines raw concrete and futuristic shapes. Admire the imposing structure and take some photos.

Conclusion

So, is Skopje worth visiting? Absolutely. This city may have its controversies and contrasts, but it also has a unique character, friendly locals, and a compelling history and culture. From its historic bazaar and Ancient Fortress to its contemporary art scene and diverse cuisine, Skopje is a city that offers something for every traveler. Come and discover it for yourself.