The Republic of Macedonia is a state in southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. In the north it borders with Kosovo and Serbia, in the west - with Albania, in the south - with Greece, in the east - with Bulgaria.
Macedonia is located within two large mountain systems: in the far west there are more high mountains The Pindus, which is a continuation of the Dinaric Highlands, and the lower Rhodope Mountains - in the center and east. These mountain systems separated by the Vardar river valley. The highest mountain ranges form the natural borders of the country. The central part of Macedonia is a mosaic of lower mountains and intermountain basins.
State
State structure
Macedonia is a democratic republic. The head of state is the president, elected by the Assembly (parliament) of Macedonia. Executive power belongs to the government (Council of Ministers), which is elected by a majority vote in parliament. The highest legislative body is the unicameral Assembly.
Language
Official language: Macedonian
The Macedonian language belongs to the group of South Slavic languages and is spoken by 70% of the country's population. At least 21% speak Albanian, which since 2001 has had official status in areas densely populated by Albanians. 3% of the country's residents each speak Turkish, Serbian and Croatian and other languages.
Religion
About 67% of religious residents belong to the Macedonian Orthodox Church, 30% are Muslims, 3% belong to other faiths.
Currency
International name: MKD
The Macedonian denar is equal to 100 denis. There are banknotes in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 denars in two series, as well as coins in 1, 2, 5 denars and 50 denars.
Currency can be exchanged at banks and numerous exchange offices. Travel checks in most major Macedonian banks can be changed without restrictions or fees.
Credit cards are not very common in the country; they can be used almost only in expensive metropolitan hotels and shops, but you can withdraw cash from a bank without any problems. Preference is given to payment methods in euros and US dollars.
Popular attractions
Tourism in Macedonia
Where to stay
Macedonia's hotel base does not boast a rich infrastructure, so the number of hotels in the country is limited even in the country's largest cities. Before visiting the country, you must make reservations in advance.
Popular resorts Macedonia - Popova Shapka and Mavrovo - in addition to classic hotels, they also have boarding houses and small hotels. In the area of lakes Ohrid and Prespe there are sanatoriums, apart-hotels and family mini-hotels.
Macedonia hotels partially comply with international star classification, although very often the category of these establishments is overpriced and the price does not always correspond to the service. Most hotels in the country are certified as two- and three-star hotels. International hotel chains do not have offices in this country.
Due to the underdeveloped private sector in Macedonia, there are very few accommodation options for vacationers other than hotels. Just on ski resorts there is an opportunity to rent housing from local residents. Accommodation in guest houses and hostels in the country is quite expensive. The bulk of youth hotels are located in cities such as Skopje, Bitola and Ohrid.
Standard two- and three-star hotels provide rooms with a bathroom, toilet, balcony or terrace, equipped with a safe or luggage storage. The rooms of four-star hotels are also equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, and 24-hour service. These hotels have their own swimming pools and restaurants.
Basically, breakfast is not included in the price of your stay, but if you wish, you can pay for it separately. In some hotels in the country, you can order full board.
In Macedonia there is a system of double prices for tourists and for local citizens; foreigners pay much more.
Popular hotels
Tips
Tips in restaurants and taxis are generally 10% of the bill.
Visa
Office hours
The working day of banks usually lasts from 7.00 to 13.00 on weekdays, some large banks are open until 19.00 on weekdays and until 13.00 on Saturdays (Sundays are a day off). Exchange offices usually open from 7.00 to 19.00.
Purchases
Shops are usually open from 8.00 to 20.00 on weekdays, and from 8.00 to 15.00 on Saturday.
Safety
In Christian areas there is little to worry about personal safety. The crime rate is relatively low. And in areas densely populated by Albanians, no one is immune from any form of violence. At the household level, cases of petty fraud are frequent.
When traveling within the country, it is recommended to avoid areas bordering Kosovo and Serbia. Travel in these areas is only possible with special permission. The border is not clearly marked, every now and then there are outbreaks of activity by Albanian separatists, and fighting may occur on adjacent Serbian or Kosovo territory.
Emergency numbers
Police - 92.
Fire protection - 93.
Ambulance - 94.
National characteristics of Macedonia. Traditions
Macedonia has announced a ban on smoking in public places. Smoking is prohibited in restaurants, cafes, bars, educational institutions, government institutions, cinemas and other crowded places.
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| Macedonia |
Description
The Republic of Macedonia is located in southeastern Europe, in the southern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Greece and Albania. The total area is 25.7 thousand sq. km. Macedonia is sometimes called the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. 80% of the territory is occupied by medium-high mountains with flat tops and steep slopes. It is landlocked and borders Albania in the west, Serbia in the north, Bulgaria in the east and Greece in the south.
Geography
The geographical region of Macedonia is now located on the territory of three countries - its South part— Aegean Macedonia, part of Greece; the eastern lands - Pirin Macedonia - are part of Bulgaria, and the Republic of Macedonia is located in the north and west, in the valley of the Vardar River. Macedonia is divided by two main mountain systems: the Pindus Mountains, an extension of the Dinaric Mountains, in the far west and the Rhodope Mountains in the center and east. The peaks of many mountain ranges reach heights of 2100-2700 m. In the eastern part of the Rhodope Mountains there are many deciduous and coniferous forests. Such forests are also found in the west, although the western mountainous zone is more covered with bushes. Between the forests in the east and west there are depressions, basins and arid mountainous areas. Part of the arid region (Babun Mountains), located west of the middle reaches of the river. Vardar, separates the fertile plain of Bitola (Pelagonia) in the south from the plain of Skopje in the north and from the fertile areas of the southeast.
Time
It is 2 hours behind Moscow.
Climate
Mediterranean. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainy. average temperature January - 11-12 °C, July + 21-23 °C. Annual precipitation is 500–700 mm in the north. The tourist season here begins in May and lasts until September.
Language
The official language of the country is Macedonian.
Religion
Most believers are Orthodox Christians; Islam is also widespread (mainly among Albanians). About 67% of the country's inhabitants belong to the Macedonian Orthodox Church. In 1967, the church declared its independence from the Serbian Orthodox Church, but its autocephaly is not recognized by other Orthodox churches. Muslims make up 30% of the total number of believers, adherents of other faiths - 3%. In total, there are 1,200 Orthodox churches and monasteries and 425 mosques in Macedonia.
Population
Population 2 million 043 thousand people, 59.4% are city dwellers. Of these, 21.5% are under 15 years of age, 67.8% are between 15 and 64 years of age, and 10.7% are 65 years of age and older. The average age of the population is 32.8 years, the average life expectancy is 74.73 years. Population growth in 2004 was 0.39%. The birth rate is estimated at 13.14 per 1000, mortality at 7.83 per 1000. The emigration rate is 1.46 per 1000. Infant mortality is 11.74 per 1000 births. 64% of the population speaks Macedonian, a South Slavic group of languages. 25% of the population speaks Albanian, 4% Turkish, 2% Serbian.
Electricity
Mains voltage: 220 V
Current frequency: 50Hz
Emergency numbers
Police - 92
Fire protection - 93
Ambulance - 94
Roadside assistance - 987
Macedonian Car Enthusiasts Club (Skopje) - 116-011
Tourist Information Office (Skopje) - 116-854
Skopje Airport - 389-91, 148-300
Ohrid Airport - 389-96, 31-656
Russian representative offices in Macedonia:
Embassy: Skopje, st. Pirinska, 44,
tel. 117-160, fax 117-808.
Connection
Cellular communication is represented by the GSM-900 standard. Coverage in cities is quite dense; in mountainous areas there are large areas where cellular communications are unavailable. Local SIM cards can be purchased at the offices of Makedonski Telekomunikacii (MobiMak, network code 294-01). To make calls from a street pay phone, including abroad, telephone cards are used (sold at post offices and kiosks). Calls from hotels are significantly more expensive, and call quality is usually lower than from a pay phone. International code Macedonia - 389. To call from Russia to Macedonia, dial 8 - 10 - 389 - area code. For international calls, the international outgoing code 99 is dialed before the number. Some city codes: Skopje - 23, Ohrid - 96, Bitola - 97, Kichevo - 95. For long-distance calls within the country, a zero is added before the city code.
Currency exchange
Currency: Denar of the Republic of Macedonia (written MKD).
Banknotes in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 denars of two series are in circulation, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5 denars and 50 denars (due to denomination they are being withdrawn from circulation).
The working day of Macedonian banks usually lasts from 7.00 to 13.00 on weekdays, some large banks (Stopanska Banka) are open until 19.00 on weekdays and until 13.00 on Saturdays (Sundays are a day off). Exchange offices are usually open from 7.00 to 19.00. The only legal tender in the country is the denar. Currency can be exchanged at banks and numerous exchange offices.
Credit cards are not very common in the country; they can be used almost only in expensive metropolitan hotels and shops, but you can withdraw cash from a bank without any problems. Preference is given to payment methods in euros and US dollars.
Visa
Citizens Russian Federation may enter the territory of the Republic of Macedonia without a visa if they have an original invitation certified by the relevant authorities in Macedonia, or an original tourist voucher confirming payment for the hotel and other services for the entire period of stay in the country, or a valid Schengen visa category "C". In all other cases, a visa must be issued in advance at the consular section of the Macedonian Embassy in Moscow.
Practical experience shows that if you arrive at the border without a pre-issued visa, the issue of entry is decided individually by the border service officer on duty.
Visa-free entry into the territory of Macedonia is not possible if the tourist’s passport has a “cancelled” Schengen visa (there are stamps about entry and exit from the Schengen zone) or, instead of the original voucher or invitation, there is only a fax copy or a printout of the hotel reservation from the Internet.
Customs regulations
The import and export of foreign currency is not limited. The export and import of national currency is formally prohibited. The transit of explosives and toxic substances, drugs, gold bars, plates and coins, objects of historical and cultural value is prohibited. Duty-free import of cigarettes is allowed in quantities of up to 200 pcs. and alcoholic drinks - up to 1 liter. Duty-free import of food, perfumes, and clothing is allowed within the limits of personal needs. The import of household appliances into Macedonia as gifts is permitted with the payment of customs duties; for personal needs - no more than one item, which is included in the customs declaration and must be exported from the country.
Holidays and non-working days
March-April - Orthodox Easter
A folk song and dance festival is held in Orchid at the beginning of July, and at this time folk groups from many Balkan countries come here. The summer festival, which takes place in Orchid from mid-July to mid-August, is famous for its classical music concerts. Poets gather in Struga at the end of August for the International Poetry Festival.
Transport
Bus transport is well developed in Macedonia, especially the routes linking Skopje, Bitola and Ohrid. Always book bus tickets to and from Ohrid in advance.
Rail transport is not particularly developed here. There is a local train from Skopje to Bitola, which covers a distance of 230 km in four hours.
Tourists and travelers can be given advice - if you intend to visit Ohrid, then book bus tickets to and from Ohrid in advance. For those who want to move around the country on their own, car rental is always available. You can rent a car in the offices of international companies, located, for example, at Ohrid and Skopje airports, as well as in small private garages. In order to rent, you must have an international driver's license and paid insurance. Instead of insurance, you can pay a cash deposit, the amount of which will depend on the price group of the car. In addition, you will have to pay local rental taxes (up to 15%) and an insurance fee.
Tips
Tips in restaurants and taxis are generally 10% of the bill.
The shops
Most stores are open on weekdays from 8.00 to 20.00 and on Saturdays from 8.00 to 15.00. Shops in Macedonia offer a large selection of goods, both local and imported. Duty free shops are usually located at the airport. Wednesday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00 or until 21:00 in summer. Saturday shops are open longer in tourist areas. In shops in Macedonia you can pay in Macedonian dinars, as well as most credit cards(Diners, American Express, Visa and MasterCard/EuroCard) and euro checks, which are accepted for payment in most hotels, shops and restaurants.
National cuisine
The national cuisine of Macedonia will surely appeal to true gourmets. In numerous Macedonian restaurants and cafes you can try Turkish-style fried minced meat.
In the Charshija area there is also a special women's cafe "Baghdad". All other cafes are predominantly male territory.
Local cuisine is formed as a result of a mixture of culinary traditions different nations. Bulgarian, Serbian, Turkish and Greek traditions had a great influence.
The country has long been famous for its simple but very tasty dishes made from vegetables, meat and spices. Meat dishes are prepared mainly from lamb and pork, while, as in neighboring Serbia and Montenegro, a characteristic feature is the widespread use of specially fermented milk - “kajmak” (served as a cold appetizer). It is recommended to try fried minced meat in Turkish style, puff pastry with meat or cheese "burek", beans in a frying pan "tavce gravce", minced meat sausages "cevapcici", various options“kebabs”, eggplants, potatoes and tomatoes with layers of meat - “moussaka”, tomato salad with paprika and beans “ajvar”, Ohrid trout “pastrmka”, Shopska salad “shopska salata”, traditional “tarator” and “muchkalitsa”, meat stewed with rice and vegetables “juvech” or “gyuvech”, meat balls “koftinya”, stuffed cabbage rolls “sarma”, stuffed peppers “polniti piperki”, meat stew “selsko meso”, smoked meat, “kebapchinya” baked with vegetables and spiced meat "turli tava", vegetable stew "zarzavat", chicken in mustard sauce or kaymak, the famous dried ham "prosciutto" and dozens of other original dishes.
There is always fresh leb bread, herbs and cheese on the table. For sweets they serve “baklava”, rice pudding “sutliyash”, jams “slatko”, “burek” or “zelnik”. Black coffee "Hollandse Koffie" or in Turkish - "Tursko Koffie", teas with herbs, honey and various mousses and juices are very popular. Local wines, although poorly known in international markets, but have excellent data and low cost. Among the strong drinks, “rakija” moonshine (grape, plum, pear, herbal, etc.) is popular, and comes in two types - “white” and “yellow”.
Attractions
This is a country where you can relax and touch the origins of Orthodox culture. It's safe and inexpensive, environmentally friendly and sunny. The capital of the country is Skopje, as the city has been known since the times of the Roman Empire, with an early Byzantine fortress, Turkish mosques and other buildings built in the 15th-20th centuries. (destroyed by the 1963 earthquake, since the 1960s. architectural monuments are restored). A new city center is being built (designed by Japanese architect K. Tange). Near Skopje are the ruins of the ancient city of Skupi. The real pearl of this region is Lake Ohrid, located at an altitude of 695 m (area 348 sq. km, depth up to 285 m), and apparently connected by underground karst cavities with the lake. Prespa. This is one of the most beautiful and cleanest lakes in Europe, a popular resort area. The city of Ohrid, located on the shore of the lake, is famous for its architectural monuments - the Basilica of St. Sophia from the 11th century and the Church of St. Clement from the 13th century, in which Byzantine frescoes have been preserved, are also interesting National Museum and the castle of King Samuel (XI century). One of the monasteries in the city is the place where the enlighteners Cyril and Methodius created the Slavic alphabet and first began teaching it to their students. In all major cities - Bitola (formerly Monastir), Prilep, Kumanovo, Skopje, many architectural monuments of the Middle Ages and antiquity have been preserved, and the carefully preserved natural environment allows us to consider the country one of the best European centers for active recreation - walking and mountain tourism, rafting and sport fishing.
Bitola- the second largest city in the country, located in the very south, near the border with Greece. The main attraction of the city is the ruins of ancient Heraclea Lyncestis, founded by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century. BC e. No less interesting is Lake Dojran in the east of the country, whose surroundings can be considered one of the most beautiful in the country, the mineral springs of Debar, the picturesque canyons of the Matka and Treska rivers, the most beautiful canyon in Europe - the Radika Gorge and the waterfall of the same name - the highest in the Balkans, the most beautiful cave area in mountains of Bistra, caves Vrelo ("spring"), Krstalnja and Ubava ("beautiful") in the Treska canyon, Lake Matka and the nearby monasteries of Matka (XIV century), St. Andrew (1389) and St. Nikola Shishovsky (XIV century), monastery of St. Jovan Bigorski with its unique wooden iconostasis, the capital of winemaking Kavadarchi, Lake Prespa (274 sq. km.) with the island of Golem Grad, the picturesque area of Tsarev Dvor, the Church of St. George (1191) in the village of Kurbinovo, the capital of ceramics Oteshevo (located under the auspices of UNESCO), etc.
Resorts
Macedonia is surrounded on all sides by mountains, so all resort opportunities in Macedonia are directly related to the mountains.
In first place is Lake Ohrid, which has the properties of a mountain resort. It is located at an altitude of 695 m above sea level near the border with Albania. The lake is considered the cleanest in Europe and offers tourists a swimming season from May to September (the water warms up to +24 °C). The entire coast of the lake is built up with sanatoriums and hotels offering a full range of entertainment.
You can have a great time in ski resorts in Macedonia. Popova-Shapka is considered the most famous and most popular. The resort is located at an altitude of 1845 m above sea level near the town of Tetovo. The weakness of this resort so far is the lack of infrastructure. Although work on its creation is actively underway.
MACEDONIA
(Republic of Macedonia)
Geographical position. The Republic of Macedonia is located in the center of the Balkan Peninsula, in the Vardar River basin. It borders Albania, Bulgaria, Serbia and Greece.
Square. The territory of Macedonia occupies 25,713 square meters. km.
Main cities Administrative division. The capital of Macedonia is Skopje. The largest cities: Skopje (563 thousand people), Bitola (138 thousand people), Kumanovo (136 thousand people), Tetovo (180 thousand people). Administratively, Macedonia is divided into 30 districts.
Macedonia is a republic. The head of state is the president, the head of government is the prime minister. The legislative body is the unicameral Assembly.
Relief. Most of Macedonia is occupied by medium-altitude mountains (heights up to 2764 m) with flat peaks and steep slopes. The mountains are separated by tectonic depressions occupied by lakes (Ohrid and Prespa) or river valleys (Vardar river basin, etc.). In the northwest, on the border of Macedonia with Kosovo, is the largest Macedonian mountain, Titov Vrh (2748 m). Macedonia has three large national parks: Pelister (west of Bitola), Galicica (between Lake Ohrid and Prespa) and Mavrovo (between Ohrid and Tetovo).
Geological structure and minerals. On the territory of Macedonia there are deposits of lead, zinc, copper, and iron ore.
Climate. Macedonia has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainy. In winter, the warm wind in the Vardar River valley softens the continental climate that prevails in the northern part of the country. Average temperatures in January are -1-3°C, in July 18-22°C. Precipitation is 500 mm per year.
Inland waters. Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa are the largest lakes on the Balkan Peninsula. They are located in the southwestern part of Macedonia on the border with Albania. The Vardar River flows through the center of the country and its capital, Skopje.
Soils and vegetation. On slopes up to an altitude of 2000m. mixed forests and shrubs grow; steppe mountain meadows are located higher up.
Animal world. The fauna of Macedonia is characterized by the wolf, fox, hare, hedgehog, deer, and wild boar. Pelicans live near the lakes, and turtles, snakes, and lizards live in karst areas.
Population and language
About 2 million people live in Macedonia. About 68% of the population are Macedonian Slavs. Other ethnic groups: Albanians - 22%, Serbs - 5%, Roma - 3.6% and Turks - 3.4%.
Most Albanians are concentrated in the area between Tetovo and Debar in the northwestern part of the country. At one time, demonstrations took place here in defense of the rights to receive education in the Albanian language.
The Macedonian Slavs have nothing in common with the Greek Macedonians of the ancient period. The Macedonian language is very similar to Bulgarian and Serbian. Many ethnographers classify Macedonians as ethnic Bulgarians. The official position of the Bulgarian government is that Macedonians are Bulgarians. Among Macedonians there are very few supporters of this point of view.
Religion
Almost all Albanians and Turks are Muslims, Slavs are Orthodox.
Brief historical sketch
The territory of Macedonia has been inhabited since Neolithic times. The first historically known settlement was founded by Illyrian and Thracian tribes.
In the 5th century BC e. a state arose on the territory of Macedonia (lasted until the 2nd century BC). Cities as centers of craft and trade almost did not exist here in the early period.
In the VI-VII centuries. n. e. The territory of Macedonia was inhabited by Slavic tribes. It is believed that these tribes were ethnically and linguistically one group with the tribes that settled in the territory occupied by modern Bulgaria.
In the 7th century Byzantium partially subjugated the Slavs of Macedonia. In 670-675 The proto-Bulgarian horde of Khan Kuver invaded Macedonia and settled in the area of the city of Bitola.
In the 9th century. Most of Macedonia was part of the First Bulgarian Kingdom.
In the IX-X centuries. Feudal relations were formed on the territory of Macedonia, and Christianity spread widely.
In 1018, Macedonia was conquered by the Byzantine Empire.
In 1230, Macedonian territory became part of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom.
In the middle of the 14th century. Macedonia was conquered by the Serbian king Stefan Dusan, and in the last quarter of the 14th century. - The Ottoman Empire.
During the period of Turkish rule, the influx of Albanians into Macedonia increased, and purely Muslim villages arose.
The growing liberation struggle of the Greeks, associated with the Greek national liberation revolution of 1821-1829, also covered the Greek population in Macedonia. The liberation movement of the Slavic population also developed.
niya of Macedonia, aimed at overthrowing the Ottoman yoke and against the Hellenization policy pursued by the Patriarchate of Constantinople.
In 1903, a national liberation uprising broke out in Macedonia, during which the so-called Krushevo Republic was proclaimed and a Provisional Revolutionary Government led by N. Karev was created.
With aggravation at the beginning of the 20th century. In the struggle of European powers (especially Germany and Austria-Hungary) for dominance on the Balkan Peninsula, Macedonia turned into one of the centers of international contradictions. The struggle of other Balkan countries for Macedonia also intensified.
As a result of the Balkan Wars of 1912-1913. Macedonia was divided between Serbia (Vardar Macedonia), Greece (Aegean Macedonia) and Bulgaria (Pirin region).
In 1918, Vardar Macedonia became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes (since 1929 - Yugoslavia). Vardar Macedonia was one of the most backward regions of Royal Yugoslavia.
The Serbian bourgeoisie, which occupied a dominant position in royal Yugoslavia, pursued a policy of national oppression in Vardar Macedonia. The very name “Macedonia” was erased from the official lexicon, and forced Serbization was carried out. This caused active resistance on the part of the Macedonians, Macedonian cultural circles were created, the Macedonian literary language was formed, the foundations of Macedonian national literature were laid, which was facilitated by the active work of advanced social forces, communists, and progressive intelligentsia. The process of formation of the Macedonian nation was underway.
In 1941, as a result of the occupation of Yugoslavia by Hitler's troops, most of Vardar Macedonia was occupied by monarcho-fascist Bulgaria, and the remaining areas by fascist Italy.
In October 1941, the liberation struggle began in Vardar Macedonia, which was an integral part of the pan-Yugoslav national liberation movement.
In 1943, at the 2nd session of the Anti-Fascist Assembly of People's Liberation of Yugoslavia, it was decided that the new Yugoslavia would be built as a democratic federation of equal peoples, including the Macedonians.
In 1944, Macedonia was finally liberated from the fascist occupiers.
In April 1945, the first people's government of Macedonia was formed. In November 1945, the Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia was proclaimed. The People's Republic of Macedonia became one of its six republics.
A new stage in the formation and development of the Macedonian nation has begun in the conditions of socialist construction, during which the elimination of illiteracy was carried out, the creation of an education system in their native language, the familiarization of workers with the achievements of science and culture, the creation of intelligentsia, the formation of the Macedonian folk culture etc.
In January 1992, the country declared itself completely independent from Yugoslavia.
Brief Economic Sketch
Macedonia is an agrarian-industrial country.
Mining of chromites, copper, lead-zinc, iron ores. Enterprises of ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, mechanical engineering, chemical-pharmaceutical, food (tobacco, wine-making, rice-cleaning), light and wood-processing industries. Agriculture is dominated by crop production: grains (rice, wheat, corn). They cultivate cotton, opium poppy, peanuts, and anise. Macedonia is a significant producer of southern varieties of tobacco. Fruit growing, viticulture. Mountain pasture sheep breeding. Lake fishing. Forestry. Export: clothing, textiles, machinery and equipment, medicines, furniture, agricultural products.
The monetary unit is the Macedonian dinar.
Brief sketch of culture
Art and architecture. On the territory of Macedonia, ruins of cities that existed before the 4th-6th centuries have been preserved. - Stobi, Skupi, Heraclea.
The character of medieval architecture is determined by the influence of Byzantine architecture. Secular architecture before the Turkish conquest is represented by the remains of the Cyclopean walls of Skopje (535), the castle of King Samuel (early 11th century).
An early type of church architecture is a three-nave basilica with a dome and choir (Basilica of St. Sophia in Ohrid, around 1037-1050). In the XII-XIV centuries. The type of cross-domed church with one dome (the Church of St. Michael and Gabriel in Les-novo, 1341) or five (the Church of St. Panteleimon in Nerezi, 1164) was established.
From the end of the 13th century. the facades of buildings were often decorated with rich patterned stone and brick masonry.
During the era of Turkish rule, domed mosques, minarets, inns, baths and tower-like dwellings were built in cities (Skopje, Bitola, Shtipe, etc.).
By the XVIII-XIX centuries. include picturesque ensembles of monasteries (John Bigorsky Monastery, 1743) and various examples of folk architecture (residential buildings with a symmetrical arrangement of rooms around a vestibule and a courtyard isolated from the street).
Medieval art on the territory of Macedonia is represented by numerous cycles of frescoes, which occupy an important place in the history of Eastern European painting of the 11th-14th centuries.
Significant monuments of art from the Byzantine period are the fresco cycles in the Church of St. Sofia in Ohrid (mid-11th century) and the Church of St. Panteleimon in Nerezi (1164).
The frescoes of the masters Michael and Eutyches in the churches of St. are associated with the last flowering of Byzantine art. Clement in Ohrid (1295) and St. George in Staro-Nagori-chino (1317-1318), characterized by a variety of subjects and an abundance of real details.
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 the cultural heritage of the 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:
- dialect Greek language with Illyrian elements;
- 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
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 appear, 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. The total area of the new country is 25,713 km², which 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 there is 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, a northern border with Yugoslavia, a common western border with, and an eastern border with Bulgaria. The only one Balkan country without access to the sea - this 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 population of the country is 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 in the distant 5th century BC, and in different time 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 by the 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 preserves unique architectural monuments from antiquity to the Middle Ages. Particularly popular among historians and tourists are the modest 18th-century Orthodox Church of the Holy Savior, leading directly to it, and two Muslim mosques created in 1492: the Sultan Murat Mosque and a mosque near one of the oldest - and many other 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.
In the city, as if by order, many architectural masterpieces have been preserved: the Gorna Porta gate, 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 in addition to the usual New Year and Christmas, among the unusual ones popular with tourists, May 24 (Day of Saints Cyril and Methodius) and October 11 (Partisan Day) are especially loved.
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 the abundance of local cuisine can be tasted in the excellent Kaj Kanevche restaurant in Ohrid.
We recommend tasting all the traditions of delicious Mediterranean cuisine in the capital’s Vodenica Mulino restaurant. This cubby, where you will always be offered 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, popular with family tourists Hotel Villa Mesokastro 4* 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. There is a good bar for guests, breakfast is served in the room, discreet service, and car rental is 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 services telephone communication, Internet and even saunas.
ShoppingMacedonia is one of the most profitable EU countries for shopping; there are quite a lot of low prices relatively neighboring countries(often 40-50% lower). IN big cities There are many different souvenir shops and handicraft 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 also take care of 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 an international passport and medical insurance. For residents of Ukraine visa-free regime 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 besides Belgrade there are connecting flights via Rome, Vienna, Dubai, previously via Istanbul.
A train trip can only be planned if you are not limited in time. This pleasure is not cheap, and every year some international destinations are gradually 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.
