I have no trouble what so ever providing ideas for future visitors. Skopje is filled with curiosities and interesting things to see and do. With its varied history, different ethnicities and current government, the city is simply fascinating to explore. Here are 5 free things to do in Skopje Macedonia that I hope you enjoy as much as I have.
Stone Bridge
The oldest bridge in the city having foundations that date back to Roman times 2,000 years ago. Walk across and marvel at the Vardar River glistening in the sunshine. Cross from the ethnically Macedonian side of the city to a completely new world, the Albanian side and that of historical Ottoman heritage.
Walk down to the base of the bridge and see the diving statue, a unique one of over 300 statues in the city. This bridge is basically the centre of everything touristy in Skopje. From here branch out and explore this walkable destination.
Ships
Possibly the most bizarre things to emerge from the Skopje 2014 project, are these four massive ships that are docked in the river at the centre of the city. Originally designed as restaurants, only one is operational at the time of writing.
The other three mammoth creatures sit in the shallow waters, collecting debris at their bases. They have been vandalized and covered with graffiti. Perhaps people are living inside now, as some of them appear with large gashes in their sides. These ships while picturesque to a certain degree are the strangest sights in this city. They make no sense and are certainly a curiosity.
Old Bazaar
This is the Old Town, or the city where the Ottomans settled during their 520 year occupation in this area. Let yourself get lost in the labyrinth of ancient cobblestone streets and stumble upon hammams, caravanserai (traders inns), museums, shops, markets and more.
This area is oozing with historical culture and charm and is the part of the city I gravitated too almost daily. There is always something new to see, whether its Yugoslavian antiques spilling onto the streets from dusty stores, or sparkling gold from the souks.
National Library
A Post Modernism building from the Yugoslav era, but this one you can enter. Walk through those glass doors and think you have stepped back into the 1970’s. Visitors are free to explore the extensive entrance area. Of particular interest, especially to those who love design and architecture, are the wooden and metal decorative features. Notice the retro clocks, lamps, coffee machine, furniture and more.
On the second floor is the extensive card catalogue system and beautiful pieces of art and historical drawings. Inside small cases, are displays of local handicrafts and wares. This is a special building and by the looks of it, I’m not sure how much longer it will be around.
Skopje Fortress
Perhaps the most noticeable feature on the Skopje skyline is that of the fortress. Completely free to enter and explore, this historical site will give you a view of the entire city. Climb up to the walls and walk around the towers, seeing both the Macedonian side of the city and the Ottoman one.
First constructed in the 6th century by the Byzantines, this incredible fortress has been used over the centuries by many. Most recently, in the 19th & 20th centuries, it was home to a prison, barracks, armory and military hospital. Archaeological excavations are regularly carried out, the most recent in 2010 when a hoard of gold Byzantine coins was found!
I hope this gives visitors a place to start on their explorations of Skopje. Its such an interesting city to visit, full of wonders, a zoo, many many museums, more mosques than churches, old and new bridges, statues galore, I could go on and on. Enjoy every second of Skopje.
