Located on the Vardar River, Skopje, the capital of the Macedonian Republic, is also its largest city. It is ideally sited, being protected by hills on three of its sides.

The earthquake of 1963 caused an enormous amount of damage, demolishing most of its buildings.

Skopje became established at the borders of different cultures; the churches and mosques of its old city stand at-ease next to each other.

Skopje Castle

Skopje’s old city still reflects the period of Turkish rule.

In the winding, narrow, little cobble-stone streets of what was once the bazaar quarter, enticing restaurants, cafés and shops vie for the visitor’s attention; the majority of Skopje’s historic monuments are also to be found here. Three outstanding examples of 15^th century Turkish architecture are the baths of Daud Pasha and the mosques of Mustapha Pasha and Sultan Murad.

Skopje - Old Town

One of the bridges arching across the Vardar River – the Kamenimost – was built more than five hundred years ago. Starting next to the bridge, and lining the bank of the river, is Skopje’s other popular entertainment belt – particularly favoured by the young – consisting of terraced cafés and inviting restaurants.

Panoramic views can be enjoyed from the public park established on the hill overlooking Skopje. The park is particularly popular with the city’s inhabitants on summer evenings.