Macedonia is a small country located on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It numbers a population of about 2,082,370 citizens and borders with Greece, Albania, Bulgaria and Serbia.

The capital of Macedonia is Skopje, which has a population of about 470,000 citizens. Although, small. Macedonia holds an immensely rich past, which is why there are so many things to visit and see.

Not many people know the country of Macedonia, which is why natives will tell you that the question where is Macedonia usually pops up while they are having a conversation with people from abroad.

Now that we have answered the question “where is Macedonia”, it is time to talk about why this country should be your next destination. From nature to history, Macedonia has it all.

Discover the History

If you are into history, then Macedonia has some of the oldest historical sites in the Balkan. A few places that should be on your list include Heraclea Lyncestis which is an impeccably preserved archeological site, which is believed to have been built during the reign of Philip II Macedonian.

Other sites that you can visit are the famous churches St.John at Kaneo, Ohrid, as well as the Monastery St. Naum. One thing that it is common for both of these religious buildings is the breathtaking views. Set upon a cliff, the view of the Ohrid Lake from these building is more than magnificent and a real photographer’s dream.

Explore Breathtaking Nature

Apart from being a place with a rich history, Macedonia is also a country which has some of the most beautiful nature spots in all of the Balkan. One of these is the Matka Canyon, where you can see some the countless endemics of flora and fauna as you sail along the river.

Further Read: Learn About Amazing Places to Visit in This Stunning Country!

You can also go into some of the famous caves, where you can find walls covered in writings that scientists are to this day having a hard time deciphering. Macedonia has also some of the most magnificent mountains, one of which is the Mountain Baba with the top Pelister.

While there you can also see the two glacial lakes, known as Pelister’s Eyes, and experience some of the most breathtaking views of the town below. However, the biggest natural treasure that Macedonia has to offer is the Ohrid Lake, which is one of the clearest and deepest lakes and holds over 200 endemic species.

Get to Know People of Macedonia

Just as with all of the Balkan countries, the people in Macedonia are some of the most welcoming people out there. One thing that sets the people from Macedonia apart from the rest of the Balkans is how much time they spend in cafes and restaurants.

Although, not a rich country the people in Macedonia make it their priority to go out once during the day and have a drink of coffee with their family or friends. This can clearly be seen in any of the cities in Macedonia but especially in Bitola, where the famous street “Shirok Sokak” is always full of people, regardless of the day or hour.

Therefore, if you are taking a rest from all the sightseeing and hiking, sit down in one of the local cafes and enjoy the buzz of the people passing by. However, make sure you go early if you want to find a free table.

So, where is Macedonia? Macedonia is a small, not so popular country in the Balkan Peninsula. However, although small in size it is a place where you will be able to see artifacts of times long passed, the architecture of different eras and influences, as well as nature in its best light.