My most memorable city in the region.

Memorable mainly due to the surprising huge neoclassical buildings and monuments. They have nothing to do with the culture and history of this region. 😀

Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia. 

Tourists spend time on both sides of the river, crossing the ancient pedestrian bridge.

Weirdly, there are wrecked ships in the river that anyone can explore.

Super dangerous, in my opinion.

Apparently they are fake concrete-and-steel imitation galleons built as tourist attractions — but are rapidly falling apart.

Macedonian Street is the mostly pedestrian area where visitors hang out. Shops, bars, restaurants, fast food, ice cream.

Huge Skopje Fortress looms over the river and old city. I enjoyed exploring that attraction — but it could be much improved.

Most impressive to me in this region are the Byzantine-style churches. I love the look.

As ornate as Trump’s toilet.

Of course there are many mosques, and many very historic mosques.

See more churches & mosques.

The Memorial House of Mother Teresa is located here in her home town.

All in all, I’d recommend Skopje.

I stayed at an entertaining hostel here. Mama and a litter of brand new kittens.

I signed up for a half day tour which would get me up to the giant crucifix. Sadly, the cable car has been out for months. BUT it did get me to a great day hike in nearby Matka Canyon.

Click PLAY or watch it on YouTube.