The capital of Macedonia is Skopje. The city is located in the north of the country, not far from the border to Serbia. With 540000 inhabitants, more than a quarter of the population of Macedonia live in Skopje. The city has been settled at least since 4000 BC, with the first settlements on the fortress hill. The city passed under Roman, Byzantine, Bulgariana and Serbian rule before becoming part of the Ottoman empire in 1392. It stayed under Ottoman rule for the next 520 years. In 1991, Skopje became the capital city of an independent Macedonia.
Skopje is a relatively small capital along the banks of the Vardar river. The 1963 earthquake destroyed 80% of the city, leaving Skopje with few historical buildings. The centre of the city has been substantially developed since 2014 with many new buildings in classical/historical style and statues being added to the city. The net result is that the centre of Skopje is sort of a Disneyland for adults - very photogenic, but a bit fake. The Old Turkish Bazaar area however was restored to its previous status after the 1963 earthquake.
How to get to Skopje
Skopje can be reached by car, plane (international airport of Skopje) or train.
Accommodation
Accommodation options include hotels and pensions, all bookable via the international booking portals. Prices are moderate.
