Over the past 20-30 years, the world has changed a lot, people have become more literate and are more actively fighting for their interests, rights and freedoms. And in this regard, the borders of various states are increasingly being adjusted or completely new countries are appearing, such as the Republic of Macedonia.
A little about the countryThe state has become known to the world since September 1991, when the former republic of Yugoslavia declared its independence and became the parliamentary Republic of Macedonia. total area new country– 25,713 km², this is approximately 36% of the area of historical Macedonia. And the capital of the modern country is the city. The official language in the Republic is Macedonian; it is spoken by more than 70% of the total population, but thanks to trade and tourism, English is also actively spreading in Macedonia.
In the last decade, Macedonia has been investing great efforts in the development of the tourism business; it is believed that this country is very comfortable and attractive for tourists. And it will become truly unforgettable, because here beautiful nature, a lot and enough offers for active rest.
Where is Macedonia?
The state of Macedonia is located in the northern part of the Balkan Peninsula, has a common southern border with Greece, northern with Yugoslavia, the western border is common with, and the eastern - with Bulgaria. The only Balkan country without access to the sea is the Republic of Macedonia, although it has a very favorable location: in the depths of the country there are accessible mineral resources, even precious metals have been discovered, but their extraction has so far been postponed due to the small reserves of the deposit. In Macedonia, winemaking, textile and tobacco industries have been actively developing for more than a century.
What's in a name?
The word “Macedonia” has very ancient roots, and the territory of the state has repeatedly changed its borders. In this regard, at the insistence of the Greek government, the UN and official international documents consider the correct name to be the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, but it is often called simply: the Republic of Macedonia or Macedonia.
It should be taken into account that historical region Macedonia, the region in Greece Aegean Macedonia or part of Bulgaria, Pirin Macedonia are completely different territories.
Climate and weather in Macedonia
The northern part of the Balkan Peninsula has a temperate continental mountain climate, but the southern part of the country boasts warmer climates. climatic conditions: Affected by the proximity of the Mediterranean.
In summer, as a rule, it is hot and dry, average daily temperatures fluctuate around +22 degrees, closer to the northern border it is always cooler - up to +15 degrees. In Macedonia, the winter weather is very comfortable. At night the thermometer drops to an average of -7, but during the day it becomes much warmer - +5 degrees. As a rule, precipitation in winter ranges from 500 mm on average across the country and up to 1700-2000 mm in the mountains; here snow can lie from November to March.
The tourist season is considered to be the period from May to September, when there is practically no precipitation and air temperatures are guaranteed to stay above zero degrees.
Population of Macedonia and religion
Today, the country is home to more than 2.1 million citizens of different nationalities, mostly Slavic. Most of the country's population are Macedonians, according to the census they are about 64%, Albanians live about 26%. The remaining 10% includes Serbs, Turks, Roma and other nationalities.
Slavic roots also make themselves felt in religious matters: about 67-68% of Macedonians consider themselves Orthodox Christians; we can say that this is the state religion of the Republic of Macedonia. A little less than 30% of the inhabitants are Muslims, mostly Albanians who live in this country.
History of Macedonia
Territory small state Macedonia first appeared back in the distant 5th century BC, and at different times it was part of or belonged to various empires and states: the Roman and Byzantine empires, the Serbian kingdom, the Ottoman Empire, Ancient Macedonia and Paionia.
In the 14th century, all the lands of modern Eastern Europe were enslaved by the Ottoman Empire. In the 19th century, Bulgarians began to fight for their national rights. During the Balkan Wars, the borders of many states constantly changed, merged into one and were divided again, until finally the territory of ancient Macedonia was divided between Greece, Bulgaria and Serbia, the latter in 1929 becoming part of the newly formed Kingdom of Yugoslavia. In 1991, the Republic of Macedonia acquired sovereignty and independence.
Natural beauties of Macedonia
The nature of Macedonia includes high and smooth lakes and plains. For a long time this country has been called “the country of mountains and lakes.” The territory of the Republic is crossed by two mountain systems: on the western side of the Pindus Mountains, and from the east to the center of the Rhodope Mountains. The height of the local mountains is on average 2500 meters. Macedonia is an area of seismic activity, with significant strong earthquakes sometimes occurring. The most famous happened in 1963, as a result of which the capital of Macedonia, Skopje, was badly damaged.
Two mountain ranges separated large rivers Strumica and Vardar, they cross the whole of Macedonia and are considered the largest and deepest. But the legendary lakes are located mainly in the southwest of the Republic, the largest of them are lakes and. The local landscapes are charming and incomparable. Near the lakes are open National parks to preserve the flora and fauna of the country. The vegetation is represented by true forests, consisting of deciduous and coniferous species, but in the western part of Macedonia the mountain slopes are more often covered with dense shrubs than trees.
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Sights of Macedonia
The historically rich territory of ancient Macedonia could not help but leave sights of different eras and directions. The most famous and dearest place in memory is considered to be in the city, which since 1980, together with the city and the lake, has been one of the objects World Heritage UNESCO.
About the capital Skopje, we can say that it is the largest and most diverse attraction in the country. It contains unique architectural monuments from antiquity to the Middle Ages. Particularly popular among historians and tourists is the one leading straight to the modest Orthodox Church Saint Savior of the 18th century and two Muslim mosques created in 1492: the Sultan Murad mosque and a mosque near one of the oldest - and many others memorable places and buildings.
Partially preserved near the capital antique city Skupi, and near the city there is another ancient heritage - the city of Heraclea Lyncestis, it is believed that its founder in the 4th century BC. was Philip II of Macedon himself. Archaeological excavations and scientists work periodically around both sites.
As if by order, the city has preserved many architectural masterpieces: the gates of Gorna Porta, the ruins of a Christian basilica with ancient mosaics and others. Lake Ohrid is a real treasure of Macedonia; it is located at an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level and is considered one of the cleanest lakes on the planet. Ohrid is a wonderful resort in Macedonia: many wonderful health resorts and hotels have been built here, offering a full range of services for a good holiday.
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Recreation and entertainment in Macedonia
In addition to visiting unique ancient monuments and walking through museums and parks, Macedonia has developed many tourist routes for hiking and mountain tourism, lovers of active recreation will be offered rafting, and the most fearless will be offered to walk along the cave trails of speleologists.
Local lakes are especially attractive for avid fishermen, and the mountain slopes are always ready to receive a tourist landing of skiers and snowboarders. , for example, Krushevo and Popova Shapka, in addition to basic services, often offer horse riding or a sightseeing bike ride in the surrounding area. Another famous snow resort in Macedonia, Mavrovo, is famous not only for the largest one located on its territory, but also for its hotels, which are built in the traditional style of the country. The authorities of the Republic actively support the development of such recreational areas; moreover, not all people who love snow are ready to ski.
In the capital and large cities, nightclubs are open from late evening until morning. And besides the usual New Year and Christmas, from the unusual popular with tourists Particularly loved are May 24 (Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius) and October 11 (Partisan Day).
Where to eat in Macedonia?
There is a modern mix of the culinary masterpieces of all neighbors on the Balkan Peninsula, but most of all the influence of Turkish motifs is felt. A distinctive feature of the classic menu is a large number of fruits and vegetables, which are added to almost every dish, as well as feta cheese. When it comes to meat, Macedonians prefer lamb and beef; their neighbors from Greece have also instilled a love of seafood.
A local delicacy is Ohrid trout; it is enjoyed baked, fried, and salted. Perhaps one of the most delicious dishes is trout baked in a pot with prunes in a sauce of beaten eggs, garlic and various herbs - “pastrma”. All abundance local cuisine can be enjoyed at the excellent restaurant Kaj Kanevche in Ohrid.
We recommend tasting all the traditions of delicious Mediterranean cuisine in the capital’s Vodenica Mulino restaurant. This is a cozy place that always offers fresh meat, fish, classic Macedonian dishes and snacks.
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Macedonia Hotels
They are becoming increasingly popular every year, so we recommend taking care of pressing housing issues in advance. Throughout the country there are various star ratings, from simple hostels where you can rent a bed to executive apartments.
For example, the Villa Mesokastro 4* hotel, popular among family tourists, has only 14 cozy, comfortable rooms with balconies and views of Lake Orchid; guests are provided with bicycle and boat rental services, and the Internet. Always high quality service and an excellent restaurant. And in the capital Skopje, not far from the center, it is famous Hotel Hotel Monaco Skopje 3*, designed for 11 rooms. Open for guests good bar, breakfast is served in the room, discreet service, car rental available.
For independent travelers Macedonia has a well-developed camping service. The most popular temporary camp is the Autocamp Gradište camping site in the Ohrid Lake area. You can live in your own tent or rent a small tourist house. In addition, modern campsites provide telephone services, Internet and even a sauna.
ShoppingMacedonia is one of the most profitable EU countries for shopping; there are quite a lot of low prices relative to neighboring countries (often 40-50% lower). In big cities there are many different souvenir shops and craft shops, so you are unlikely to be faced with the question. Perhaps the most popular purchase among foreigners is considered to be “opants” - national leather shoes with a toe turned up.
Macedonians handcraft amazing wooden paintings: although this is an expensive purchase, it is very durable and practical. Freshwater Ohrid pearls and products made from them are a rare gift, but, alas, you will never be able to accurately determine that they are not fake. As a rule, shops in the Republic of Macedonia are open to customers from 8:00 in the morning until 8 in the evening, on Saturdays usually until 15:00. Sunday is widely considered a day off.
On the territory of little Macedonia there are two international ones - in the capital Skopje and tourist center Ohrid, all flights are served by two airlines. Due to the small area of the state, there are no domestic flights in the country, but bus service is well developed.
Bus services are relatively inexpensive and connect everything big cities between themselves. If you are used to planning your vacation and all your movements in advance, we recommend that you take care and bus tickets. This is a very popular mode of transport among both the local population and most visitors.
Urban transport major cities – shuttle buses, but the vehicle fleet is quite outdated compared to intercity routes. In addition, taxi services are well developed in the cities, and several large companies provide cars for rent.
Do you need a visa to Macedonia?
Until March 15, 2016, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are lightweight. Those. for the purpose of visiting relatives or traveling as a tourist, registration is not required, provided that the visit does not exceed 90 days in a six-month period. In this case, you do not need to provide invitations, hotel reservation certificates and other mandatory documents, only your international passport and health insurance. For residents of Ukraine, the visa-free regime is valid until 2018.
If you are going for a total period of more than 90 days, you must apply for a visa at the Macedonian Embassy. A valid Schengen visa also allows you to enter the country without issuing a separate Macedonian visa, but in this case, a single stay should not exceed 15 days, and the total period of visiting the country should not exceed 90 days over six months.
How to get to Macedonia?
It is more convenient to get to Macedonia from most countries in Europe, Russia, Ukraine and the CIS countries by plane by direct flight or with a transfer in Belgrade and then to the airport in Skopje or Ohrid. There are no direct flights from Moscow, but in addition to Belgrade there are connecting flights through Rome, Vienna, Dubai, and previously through Istanbul.
A train trip can only be planned if you are not limited in time. This pleasure is not cheap, and every year part international destinations is gradually being cancelled. Today there are two main routes: Moscow – Budapest – Belgrade – Skopje or Kyiv – Sofia – Nis – Skopje. There are direct routes from Greece and Serbia to Macedonia; train schedules must be checked with the operator.
Emergence of Macedonia
In the prehistoric period, Macedonia was the territory through which carriers of Neolithic cultures penetrated into Europe from Asia Minor (for more details, see Prehistoric Greece). At the end of the Bronze Age, various Indo-European tribes invaded Macedonia from the north, some of whom went further to Asia Minor, and some to Greece.
The word "Macedonia" comes from the Greek "μακεδνός ( madednós)", which means "high".
The first Macedonian state was founded in the 8th century BC. e. or the beginning of the 7th century BC. e. Greek dynasty of Argeads - settlers from the southern Greek city Argos (hence the name Argead), who traced their origins to Hercules. The first king of Macedonia was Perdiccas I (according to later data - Karan).
Early kingdom
The mythical founder of the Macedonian state was called Karan, identified with the son of the Argive king Temen Archelaus. According to Justin, 924 years passed from Karan to the last king of Macedonia, Perseus, which forces us to date Karan’s reign to the 11th century BC. e.
Alexander actively used cultural heritage conquered powers, but at the same time introduced the conquered peoples to the culture of Greece and encouraged the study of Greek sciences. And although the newly formed empire collapsed soon after the death of Alexander, its legacy survived and allowed the conquered peoples to enter the Hellenistic era. The population of the Hellenistic countries of Asia even in the 2nd century. n. e. accounted for more than a quarter of the world's population. Koine Greek has been the language of international communication in most countries of the world for more than a millennium.
In 330 BC. e. The commander of Alexander the Great, Zopyrion, made a campaign in Scythia, as a result of which his thirty thousand army was defeated.
Decline of the kingdom
Language
The language of the Macedonians, which was in use until the beginning of the 5th century BC. e. and preserved in some areas for several more centuries AD, has come down to us in less than a hundred short records made by Hesychius of Alexandria in the 5th century. This language was quite close to Greek, being its dialect. The Ancient Macedonian language was influenced by Doric Greek, and with the beginning of rapid cultural development and close interaction with other states of Hellas, the difference in languages began to decrease. Due to the extremely scarce linguistic material, many points of view have emerged on the origin of the ancient Macedonian language. Most often it is considered as:
- a dialect of Greek with elements of Illyrian;
- a dialect of Greek with elements of Illyrian and Thracian;
- a dialect of Greek with elements of a non-Indo-European language;
- a dialect of the Illyrian language with elements of Greek;
- an independent Indo-European language, related to Greek, Thracian and Phrygian.
Origin
The legendary Alexander the Great, king of the Macedonian kingdom, forever introduced the word “Macedonia” into world history. Now Macedonia is not as large as during the empire of Alexander the Great, but, nevertheless, its very name speaks of great history of this country. Even if Greece disputes Macedonia’s right to bear such a name... Modern Macedonia surprises tourists with its nature, mountains, lakes, and culture. This Balkan country has several thermal and ski resorts.
Geography of Macedonia
Macedonia is located in the center of the Balkan Peninsula, in Southeastern Europe. Macedonia borders on Bulgaria in the east, Serbia in the north, Kosovo in the northwest, Greece in the south, and Albania in the west. The total area of this Balkan country is 25,333 square meters. km, and the total length state border– 748 km.
Macedonia is located in the valley of the Vardar River, and yet most of this country is occupied by mountains (Skopska Crna Gora, Pindus and Pirin). The most high peak Macedonia - Mount Korab, whose height reaches 2764 m. In general, in this country there are 16 mountains with a height of more than 2,000 meters.
The most big lakes in Macedonia - Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran.
Capital
The capital of Macedonia is Skopje, which is now home to more than 870 thousand people. Archaeologists believe that the first human settlement on the territory of modern Skopje appeared in the 3rd century BC.
Official language
In Macedonia, the official language is Macedonian (it belongs to the eastern subgroup of South Slavic languages).
Religion
About 67% of the population of Macedonia are Orthodox Christians (Macedonian Orthodox Church). Another 15% of Macedonians are Sunni Muslims.
State structure
According to the 1991 Constitution, Macedonia is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President, elected for a 5-year term.
Legislative power belongs to the unicameral Parliament - the Assembly (120 deputies).
Climate and weather
Macedonia has a transitional climate from Mediterranean to continental. Summers in this Balkan country are hot and dry, and winters are not very cold. Macedonia has three climatic zones - moderate Mediterranean, mountainous and moderate continental.
The tallest average temperature air temperature in Macedonia is observed in July and August - +31C, and the lowest in January and February (-3C).
Rivers and lakes
There are about 50 lakes in Macedonia. The largest of them are Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran. By the way, Lake Ohrid was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in the 1980s.
As for the rivers of Macedonia, the Vardar River flows through the entire territory of this country, the length of which is 388 km.
Story
In ancient times, Thracian and Illyrian tribes lived on the territory of modern Macedonia.
In 356 BC Philip II of Macedon expands the Macedonian kingdom, capturing adjacent lands. The Macedonian kingdom reached the peak of its greatness under Alexander the Great.
During the early Middle Ages, Macedonia was under the rule of the Byzantine Empire and the Bulgarian Kingdom. At the beginning of the 14th century, Macedonia became part of the Serbian state, and then the Ottoman Empire conquered the country. Macedonia was part of the Ottoman Empire for five centuries.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Macedonia belonged to Serbia, Greece and Bulgaria. Then Macedonia, under the name Vardar Banovina, was part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
After World War II, Macedonia became one of the republics in socialist Yugoslavia.
Macedonia became independent in 1991. In 1993, Macedonia was admitted to the UN.
Culture
In all Macedonian cities and villages, residents carefully preserve their folk traditions. An example of this is medieval city Krusevo, where the Macedonian traditions are probably most clearly expressed.
The most popular holidays among Macedonians are New Year, Orthodox Christmas, Great Day, Independence Day, and Ramadan Bayram.
Cuisine of Macedonia
Macedonian cuisine has absorbed many culinary traditions of the Balkans. Macedonian cuisine is noticeably influenced by Greek, Turkish, Middle Eastern and Hungarian culinary traditions. Macedonians eat Shopska salad almost every day - diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and cheese.
Macedonia produces excellent wine, which is no worse than in Greece. Other traditional Macedonian alcoholic drinks are rakia and Mastic liqueur.
Sights of Macedonia
Ancient Macedonia will arouse great interest among any inquisitive tourist. This country has many interesting attractions. The top ten best Macedonian attractions, in our opinion, include the following:
Cities and resorts
The most big cities Macedonia - Bitola, Kumanovo, Prilep, and, of course, the capital - Skopje.
Macedonia can be called mountainous country, so it's not surprising that there is ski resorts. The most popular of them are Krushevo, Mavrovo, Kozuf, and Popova Shapka.
There are many thermal springs in Macedonia; the Turks of the Ottoman Empire knew about their healing properties and built baths in their places. Now there are excellent spa resorts operating at the Macedonian thermal springs - Banište, Banja Bansko, Katlanovo, Kežovica, Kosovrasti, Istibanja, Banja Kočani.
Souvenirs/shopping
The location of Macedonia (capital - , area 25,713 sq. km) is the Balkan Peninsula (southeast of Europe). It is bordered on the southern side, by the Republic of Kosovo on the northern side, by the eastern side, and by the western side. Most of the country is occupied by the mountain systems of Shar Planina, Pirin, Skopska Crna Gora and Pindus, and highest point is the 2700-meter Mount Korab.
Macedonia consists of 84 communities (Kumanovo, Ilinden, Lipkovo, Aracinovo, Valandovo, Konche, Dojran, Zayas, Debartsa, Gradsko, and others).
How to get to Macedonia?
Those setting off on the route – Skopje will make a stop at the air terminals (they will be able to arrive in the capital of Macedonia 8.5 hours after the start of the air trip), and (11.5 hours will be spent on the air trip) or (the duration of the trip will be 8 hours ).
Depending on where the stops are made and how long they last, during the flight Moscow - Ohrid, passengers will spend 13-20 hours on the road. Those who are not averse to applying for a Greek visa can fly to Macedonia via: from there a train or plane will take them to Ohrid or Skopje.
Holidays in Macedonia
Vacationers should not deprive Skopje of attention (famous shopping center Ramstore, the Skanderberg monument, the Kale fortress, the Stone Bridge, 15 centuries old, the 66-meter Millennium Cross, inside of which there is an elevator to take everyone up to admire the Macedonian capital from above), (vacationers will enjoy a Macedonian-style dinner at the Belvedere restaurant ”, a light and music fountain (the show starts at 21:00), inspection of the 30-meter Clock Tower of the 17th century, municipal buildings and private mansions of the 18-19th centuries), Ohrid (tourists are offered to relax on the beaches, 30 km long, where it is best to swim in May-September; explore the Church of St. Clement, the Monastery of St. Naum, the Church of John Kaneo, the ruins of the ancient Roman theater; take part in the celebration of the Balkan Folklore Festival and the Summer Drama Festival), Koleshinsky Waterfall (its stream rushes down from a 19-meter height), national park Galicica (here you can see more than 1000 species of plants, visit any of the 14 villages located in the park, climb the 2250-meter Magaro Peak).
Beaches of Macedonia
Although Macedonia is landlocked, beach holiday here possible on the shores of lakes:
- beaches of Lake Ohrid: local sandy beaches During the season you will be able to bungee jump and ride on catamarans. Thanks to the gentle entry into the water, they are suitable for spending time with children.
- beaches of Lake Prespa: here it is worth admiring the scenery and going on a boat cruise, renting them in Stenje or the village of Konjsko. In the fall (until the end of October) you should come here for the fruit festivals and harvest festivals that take place.
- beaches of Lake Dojran: there everyone will be lucky enough to spend time on the white sand and ride a boat on the water surface. Those interested will be able to stay in 3-star hotels or inexpensive campsites.
Souvenirs from Macedonia
Macedonian souvenirs are gifts in the form of leather shoes, Ohrid pearls, silver, gold and copper jewelry, wooden boxes, ceramics (candlesticks, tea and tableware), icons, and items with national embroidery.
