Macedonia or Republic of Macedonia- 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. There is no access to the sea.
In most of the territory there are ridges of medium high mountains the Skopska-Tsrna-Gora, Pind, Shar (the highest point is Mount Korab (2764 m)) and Pirin systems, separated by vast intermountain basins. The valleys of the Vardar and Strumica rivers, which flow through the entire country, are separated from each other by mountain ranges. In the southwest there are large lakes Ohrid and Prespa, partly belonging to Macedonia, and in the southeast there is a large lake Dojran.
The region is seismically active, earthquakes are quite strong. As a result of the latter, which occurred in 1963, the city of Skopje was severely destroyed.
Territory and name
The official designation since 1993, used by the UN at the insistence of Greece, is the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
Often called simply Macedonia, it should not be confused with the state of Ancient Macedonia and the historical region of Macedonia in neighboring Greece. The Republic of Macedonia occupies about 35.8% of the area of historical Macedonia (52.4% is located on the territory of modern Greece, and 9.6% is located on the territory of Bulgaria and makes up about 40.9% of its population).
The territory of the Republic of Macedonia previously constituted the largest southern part Yugoslavia. Its modern borders were established shortly after World War II. In August 1947, the President of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) Josip Tito and the Prime Minister of Bulgaria Georgi Dimitrov met in Bled and agreed that all of Macedonia (or, according to at least, part of Greek and all of Bulgarian Macedonia) will eventually enter into an alliance with Yugoslav Macedonia, provided that Bulgaria becomes an integral part of the Federation of Balkan States. Thus, the Socialist Republic of Macedonia was formed as part of the SFRY - thereby the Macedonians were recognized as an independent people within the SFRY.
In 1991, with the collapse of Yugoslavia into separate states, the territory of Macedonia did not undergo changes. At the same time, the emergence of this separate state led to ongoing political disputes with Greece over the use of the names "Macedonia" and "Macedonians" to this day (July 2010).
On November 4, 2004, the US administration officially recognized the Republic of Macedonia under this constitutional name. Meanwhile, the European Union said it would use Macedonia's former name. The European Union also gave Greece guarantees that Macedonia would be able to join this organization only with the addition of the words “former Yugoslav republic” to its name.
Last changes: 18.05.2013Climate in Macedonia
Climate in Macedonia Depending on the geographical location, it changes from a temperate continental climate to a subtropical one.
In the southern part of the country, climatic conditions similar to those of the Mediterranean prevail. In summer it is hot here, the air is dry, the air temperature is from +20°C to +23°C.
However, if you go up into the mountains, you will notice that it is noticeably cooler there. In winter it is mild and humid - the average temperature ranges from -1°C to -10°C.
In the north of the country, the annual precipitation rate is approximately 500 mm, and in the west, on the mountain slopes, up to 1700 mm in winter.
In the mountains there is snow from November to March. However, already in May the air temperature often does not drop below zero.
The summer holiday season in Macedonia lasts from May to September.
Last changes: 05/18/2013Population
The population of Macedonia is 2,057,284 people (2010).
Ethnic composition population: Macedonians - 64%, Albanians - 25%, Turks - 4%, Roma - 3%, Serbs - 2%, others - 2%.
The majority of the country's inhabitants (about 67%) 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 total number believers, adherents of other faiths - 3%. In total, there are 1,200 Orthodox churches and monasteries and 425 mosques in Macedonia.
The official language of Macedonia is Macedonian, which belongs to the group of South Slavic languages. Almost 70% of the country's population speaks it.
The second most important language is Albanian, which is used for communication by more than 21% of the country's residents. The fact that on the territory of Macedonia there are areas of compact residence of Albanians served as the reason for assigning official status to the Albanian language, although only in these areas, along with Macedonian. In addition, about 3% of Macedonian residents each speak Turkish, Serbian, Croatian and other languages.
The Macedonian language is controversial due to its name. It's probably worth noting. The fact is that some linguists believe that there is no Macedonian language. But there is only a stable dialect of Bulgarian, which, due to the large number of people who are its speakers, has undeservedly received the status independent language. The official Macedonian language is the literary Macedonian language, created on the basis of dialects common throughout the country.
For a Russian-speaking person, the Macedonian language is quite difficult to understand and even perceive, due to the abundance of hard consonants.
Last changes: 05/18/2013About money
Monetary unit of Macedonia: Macedonian Denar(MKD), 1 MKD = 100 den.
There are coins in circulation in denominations of 50 denari, 1, 2, 5, 10 and 50 denars; banknotes - 10, 50, 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 denars.
The only legal tender in the country is the denar. Currency can be exchanged at banks and numerous exchange offices.
Banks are usually open from 7:00 to 13:00 on weekdays, some large banks are open until 19:00 on weekdays and until 13:00 on Saturdays. Exchange offices are usually open from 7:00 to 19:00.
Credit cards are not very common in the country: they can only be used to pay in expensive metropolitan hotels and shops, but you can withdraw cash from them at a bank without any problems.
The denar is a fairly stable currency, but you will not be able to exchange it outside of Macedonia. It is for this reason that it is best to exchange currency for denars not all at once, but in the required quantities.
Last changes: 05/18/2013Communications
Dialing code: 389
Internet domain: .mk
Police: 92, fire department: 93, ambulance: 94, roadside assistance: 987
Telephone codes cities
Skopje - 2, Ohrid - 46, Bitola - 47
How to call
To call from Russia to Macedonia, you need to dial: 8 - dial tone - 10 - 389 - area code - subscriber number.
To call from Macedonia to Russia, you need to dial: 00 - 7 - area code - subscriber number.
Landline communications
To make calls from a street pay phone, including abroad, telephone cards are used - they are sold at post offices and kiosks.
Calls from hotels are significantly more expensive, and call quality is usually lower than from a pay phone.
mobile connection
Cellular communications are 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 Telekom operators.
Shopping
Popular souvenirs include a variety of jewelry made of gold, silver and Ohrid pearls. Rakija (local moonshine) is also brought from Macedonia.
You need to buy Ohrid pearls or specialized stores or not buy at all, but under no circumstances in souvenir shops, where there is a very high probability of buying a fake.
Last changes: 05/18/2013Where to stay
The tourism infrastructure in the Republic of Macedonia is still relatively poorly developed, there are not many hotels, but the prices for accommodation in them are quite high in the country as a whole. Some hotels charge foreigners double rates and often only in foreign currency.
It is often more advisable to stay in the private sector (maximum $10-20 per person in high season).
Last changes: 05/18/2013Story
The territory of modern Macedonia was developed by man back in Neolithic times. The first historically known settlement is a settlement founded by Illyrian and Thracian tribes. Already in the 5th century BC. e. A state arose on the territory of Macedonia, which existed until the 2nd century BC. e. At the same time, cities as centers of craft and trade almost did not exist here.
The history of Macedonia since the 6th century AD is literally woven from the conquests of its various tribes, peoples, and states.
Thus, in the 6th-7th century, Slavic tribes came to the territory of Macedonia, who, ethnically and linguistically, formed the same group with the tribes that settled on the territory of modern Bulgaria. In the 7th century, the Slavs of Macedonia were subject to Byzantium. At the end of the 7th century, the proto-Bulgarian horde of Khan Kuver invaded here 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 9th-10th centuries, the first feudal relations were formed on the territory of Macedonia, and Christianity became widespread. At the beginning of the 11th century, Macedonia was completely conquered by the Byzantine Empire. And since the mid-13th century, the territory of the country has been part of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. In the mid-14th century, Macedonia was conquered by the Serbian king Stefan Dusan, and a quarter of a century later by the Ottoman Empire.
Turkish rule contributed to the influx of Albanians into Macedonia, and purely Muslim villages began to appear. At the same time, the liberation struggle of the Greeks, associated with the Greek national liberation revolution of 1821-1829, also covered the Greek population of Macedonia. At the same time, the liberation movement was developing Slavic population Macedonia, aimed at overthrowing the Ottoman yoke. As a result, in 1903, a national liberation uprising broke out in Macedonia, during which the so-called Republic of Krushevo was proclaimed and a Provisional Revolutionary Government led by N. Karev was created.
The intensification of the struggle of European powers, and especially Germany and Austria-Hungary, for dominance in the Balkan Peninsula at the beginning of the 20th century turned Macedonia into one of the centers of international contradictions. The Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 eventually led to the Macedonian territory being divided between Serbia (or sometimes called Vardar Macedonia), Greece (or Aegean Macedonia) and Bulgaria (Pirin region).
In 1918, Vardar Macedonia became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes, which became Yugoslavia in 1929. At the same time, economically, Vardar Macedonia was one of the most backward regions of Royal Yugoslavia.
In 1941, Yugoslavia was captured by the Axis countries (countries of the Nazi bloc). The territory of Vardar Macedonia was divided between Bulgaria and Albania. Some Macedonian Slavs supported the resistance movement, which was led by Josip Broz Tito, who later became the president of Yugoslavia. The Bulgarian occupation authorities formed the Independent State of Macedonia, which lasted for several months in 1944.
At the end of World War II, the Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia was formed from six republics, including the People's Republic of Macedonia. When the union was renamed the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1963, Macedonia was also renamed the Socialist Republic of Macedonia.
1991 - declaration of sovereignty and referendum on independence of Macedonia, which led to a bloodless secession from Yugoslavia. The first president of Macedonia was Kiro Gligorov, a native of the local party nomenklatura (1991-1999).
1991 - Bulgaria is the first country in the world to recognize the independence of Macedonia.
1992 - withdrawal of units of the Yugoslav army.
1993 - The Republic of Macedonia is admitted to the UN as the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
1995 - after the assassination attempt on Kiro Gligorov, Stoyan Andov served as acting head of state for a short period.
As a result of the Kosovo War in 1999, approximately 360,000 Kosovo Albanians fled to Macedonian territory. The refugees soon left the country, but a little later, local Albanians, following their example, put forward a demand for autonomy for the regions of the republic with a predominant Albanian population.
1999 - Joint Declaration establishing the principles of good neighborly relations between Bulgaria and Macedonia; confirmed by a joint memorandum in 2008.
1999-2004 - President Boris Trajkovsky.
2001 March - August - the Albanian National Liberation Army (leader Ali Ahmeti) began military-guerrilla operations against the regular army of Macedonia in the north and west of the country (especially in the Tetovo region). The confrontation was ended only by the intervention of NATO, as a result of which the Ohrid Agreement was signed with the Albanian separatists, which provided limited legal and cultural autonomy (official status of the Albanian language, amnesty for rebels, Albanian police in Albanian areas).
2002 - sporadic relapses of the Albanian-Macedonian interethnic conflict.
Last changes: 05/18/2013Helpful information
Macedonia announces smoking ban in public places. It is prohibited to smoke in restaurants, cafes, bars, educational institutions, government institutions, cinemas and other public places.
In the Albanian regions of Macedonia, cases of petty fraud are very common; the allegedly suddenly appeared language barrier is especially popular among the local population, so you should be especially careful when discussing financial issues, making purchases and paying for services.
One small but very valuable piece of advice: do not give money in advance before the service is provided. Otherwise, you may be left with nothing.
Last changes: 05/18/2013How to get to Macedonia
There are no direct scheduled flights between Macedonia and Russia. Sometimes charters fly from Russia to Macedonia (Moscow-Orchid-Moscow).
You can also get to Macedonia from Moscow by regular flights to Belgrade (Serbia), operated by Aeroflot and Jat Airways, then by internal flight to Skopje or Orchid. The flight duration from Moscow to Belgrade is about 3 hours.
If the tourist has a Greek visa, you can take one of the numerous and relatively inexpensive flights to Thessaloniki, and then travel by train to Macedonia (3-4 hours).
When departing from Macedonia, you need to pay a tax of 12 US dollars.
By train
Getting from Russia to Macedonia by train is extremely inconvenient, expensive and time-consuming. This involves crossing several states (Hungary, Serbia), which leads to the need to obtain transit visas.
Macedonia is connected by rail to Greece and Serbia. Transit trains run 2-3 times a day from Greek Thessaloniki to Belgrade, through Macedonia and its cities of Gevgelija, Gradsko, Kumanovo. In addition, there are regional trains connecting Skopje and Nis (Serbia), Skopje and Thessaloniki.
By bus
Macedonia is in close cooperation with its neighbor and some Western European countries. Therefore, you can get to the country using one of the regular or seasonal bus routes.
Bus services to Macedonia operate regularly from Serbia, Kosovo, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Albania, and Turkey.
Besides, regular flights carried out weekly to Budapest, Berlin, Prague, Vienna and Zurich. Flights to Western Europe are significantly more expensive.
By car
Distances from Skopje by road: Moscow - 2550 km, Belgrade - 416 km, Thessaloniki - 234 km, Sofia - 190 km, Athens - 710 km. Last changes: 05/18/2013
brief information
The legendary Alexander the Great, king of the Macedonian kingdom, forever introduced the word “Macedonia” into world history. Now Macedonia is not as large as during the empire of Alexander the Great, but, nevertheless, its very name speaks of great history of this country. Even if Greece disputes Macedonia’s right to bear such a name... Modern Macedonia surprises tourists with its nature, mountains, lakes, and culture. This Balkan country has several thermal and ski resorts.
Geography of Macedonia
Macedonia is located in the center of the Balkan Peninsula, in Southeastern Europe. Macedonia borders on Bulgaria in the east, Serbia in the north, Kosovo in the northwest, Greece in the south, and Albania in the west. The total area of this Balkan country is 25,333 square meters. km, and total length state border– 748 km.
Macedonia is located in the valley of the Vardar River, and yet most of this country is occupied by mountains (Skopska Crna Gora, Pindus and Pirin). The most high peak Macedonia - Mount Korab, whose height reaches 2764 m. In general, in this country there are 16 mountains with a height of more than 2,000 meters.
The largest lakes in Macedonia are Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran.
Capital
The capital of Macedonia is Skopje, which is now home to more than 870 thousand people. Archaeologists believe that the first human settlement on the territory of modern Skopje appeared in the 3rd century BC.
Official language
In Macedonia official language– Macedonian (it belongs to the eastern subgroup of South Slavic languages).
Religion
About 67% of the population of Macedonia are Orthodox Christians (Macedonian Orthodox Church). Another 15% of Macedonians are Sunni Muslims.
State structure
According to the 1991 Constitution, Macedonia is a parliamentary republic. The head of state is the President, elected for a 5-year term.
Legislative power belongs to the unicameral Parliament - the Assembly (120 deputies).
Climate and weather
Macedonia has a transitional climate from Mediterranean to continental. Summers in this Balkan country are hot and dry, and winters are not very cold. Macedonia has three climatic zones - moderate Mediterranean, mountainous and moderate continental.
The highest average air temperature in Macedonia is observed in July and August - +31C, and the lowest in January and February (-3C).
Rivers and lakes
There are about 50 lakes in Macedonia. The largest of them are Ohrid, Prespa and Dojran. By the way, Lake Ohrid was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in the 1980s.
As for the rivers of Macedonia, the Vardar River flows through the entire territory of this country, the length of which is 388 km.
Story
In ancient times, Thracian and Illyrian tribes lived on the territory of modern Macedonia.
In 356 BC Philip II of Macedon expands the Macedonian kingdom, capturing adjacent lands. The Macedonian kingdom reached the peak of its greatness under Alexander the Great.
During early Middle Ages Macedonia was under the rule Byzantine Empire and the Bulgarian kingdom. At the beginning of the 14th century, Macedonia became part of the Serbian state, and then the Ottoman Empire conquered the country. Macedonia was part of Ottoman Empire for five whole centuries.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Macedonia belonged to Serbia, Greece and Bulgaria. Then Macedonia, under the name Vardar Banovina, was part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
After World War II, Macedonia became one of the republics in socialist Yugoslavia.
Macedonia became independent in 1991. In 1993, Macedonia was admitted to the UN.
Culture
In all Macedonian cities and villages, residents carefully preserve their folk traditions. An example of this is the medieval city of Krusevo, where the traditions of the Macedonians are probably most clearly expressed.
The most popular holidays among Macedonians are New Year, Orthodox Christmas, Great Day, Independence Day, and Ramadan Bayram.
Cuisine of Macedonia
Macedonian cuisine has absorbed many culinary traditions of the Balkans. Macedonian cuisine is noticeably influenced by Greek, Turkish, Middle Eastern and Hungarian culinary traditions. Macedonians eat Shopska salad almost every day - diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and cheese.
Macedonia produces excellent wine, which is no worse than in Greece. Other traditional Macedonian alcoholic drinks– rakia and “Mastic” liqueur.
Sights of Macedonia
Ancient Macedonia will arouse great interest among any inquisitive tourist. This country has many interesting attractions. The top ten best Macedonian attractions, in our opinion, include the following:
- Stone bridge in Skopje
- Skopsko Kale Fortress
- Ancient Turkish hotel Kursumliya An
- Church of the Holy Savior in Skopje
- Turkish baths of Daud Pasha in Skopje
- Ancient Roman city of Stobi
- Medieval town of Krusevo
- Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Skopje
- Monument to Mother Teresa in Skopje
- Castle of King Samuel
Cities and resorts
The most big cities Macedonia - Bitola, Kumanovo, Prilep, and, of course, the capital - Skopje.
Macedonia can be called a mountainous country, so it is not surprising that there are ski resorts there. The most popular of them are Krushevo, Mavrovo, Kozuf, and Popova Shapka.
There are many thermal springs in Macedonia, about them healing properties They were also known by the Turks of the Ottoman Empire, who built bathhouses in their place. Now in Macedonian thermal springs There are excellent spa resorts - Banište, Banja Bansko, Katlanovo, Kežovica, Kosovrasti, Istibanja, Banja Kočani.
Souvenirs/shopping
Tourists from Macedonia usually bring handicrafts (such as ceramics), Macedonian embroidery, traditional Macedonian clothing, gold and silver jewelry.
Office hours
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). IN administratively Macedonia is divided into 30 regions.
Political system
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 Ohrid and Prespa lakes) 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. Macedonian is very similar to Bulgarian and Serbian languages. 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 essay
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 crafts and trade in early period almost didn't exist here.
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, and the Macedonian literary language, 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 people's liberation 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.
Arrived new stage formation and development of the Macedonian nation in the conditions of socialist construction, during which the elimination of illiteracy was carried out, the creation of an education system was underway native language, introducing workers to the achievements of science and culture, creating an intelligentsia, forming a 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. IN agriculture Crop production predominates: 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 essay 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 (the monastery of John Bigorsky, 1743) and various samples folk architecture (residential buildings with a symmetrical arrangement of rooms around a hallway and a courtyard isolated from the street).
Medieval fine 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.
Useful information for tourists about Macedonia, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Macedonia, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Macedonia.
Geography of Macedonia
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 the higher Pindus Mountains, which are a continuation of the Dinaric Highlands, and the lower Rhodope Mountains in the center and east. These mountain systems are 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 - democratic republic. The head of state is the president, elected by the Assembly (parliament) of Macedonia. Executive branch 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.
The popular resorts of Macedonia - Popova Shapka and Mavrovo - in addition to classic hotels, also have boarding houses and small hotels. In the area of lakes Ohrid and Prespe there are sanatoriums, apart-hotels and family mini-hotels.
Partially, hotels in Macedonia correspond to the 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 It is possible 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.
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 are 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.
Questions and feedback about Macedonia
Question answer
Republic of Macedonia.
The name of the country is derived from the ethnonym of the pre-Slovenian population - the Macedonians, whose name, in turn, comes from the ancient Greek “Makedonos” - “tall”, “tall”, “slender”.
Capital of Macedonia. Skopje.
Macedonia Square. 25333 km2.
Population of Macedonia. 2046 thousand people
Location of Macedonia. The Republic of Macedonia is located in the center of the Balkan Peninsula, in the Vardar River basin. It borders with in the north, with - in the east, with - in the south and - in the west.
Administrative divisions of Macedonia. Divided into 34 communities and 123 districts.
Form of government of Macedonia. Republic.
Head of State of Macedonia. President, elected for a term of 5 years.
Supreme legislative body of Macedonia. Unicameral Assembly of the Republic of Macedonia, term of office - 4 years.
Supreme executive body of Macedonia. Government. Big cities. Bitola, Kumanovo, Tetovo. Official language. Macedonian. Religion. 74% are Orthodox, 26% are Muslim.
Ethnic composition of Macedonia. 68% are Macedonians, 22% are Albanians, 5% are Serbs, 3.6% are Turks.
Currency of Macedonia. Macedonian denar = 100deni.
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