10 Things to Do in Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija) Bitola North Macedonia
The Old Bazaar (Stara Čaršija) in Bitola, North Macedonia is a bustling and vibrant market filled with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. This historic market is the perfect place to explore the unique culture and history of the region. Here are 10 things to do in the Old Bazaar of Bitola.
1. Explore the Historical Buildings: The Old Bazaar is home to a number of historical buildings, including the Clock Tower, which was built in the 18th century. The Clock Tower is a great place to get a bird's eye view of the bazaar and the city of Bitola. Other historical buildings in the bazaar include the Bezisten, a covered market, and the Sirok Sokak, a street filled with old buildings.
2. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The Old Bazaar is home to a number of restaurants and cafes that serve up traditional Macedonian dishes. Try the local specialties such as burek (a savory pastry filled with cheese or meat), polneti piperki (stuffed peppers), and tarator (a cold cucumber soup).
3. Shop for Souvenirs: The Old Bazaar is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Browse the shops for handmade jewelry, traditional Macedonian clothing, and locally made pottery.
4. Visit the Icon Museum: The Icon Museum is located in the Old Bazaar and houses a collection of more than 500 icons from the 16th to the 19th century. The museum also has a library where visitors can learn more about the history and symbolism of the icons.
5. Explore the Streets: The bazaar is filled with narrow, winding streets that are perfect for exploring. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the colorful buildings, local shops, and restaurants.
6. Visit the Church of St. Demetrius: The Church of St. Demetrius is a beautiful Byzantine church located in the Old Bazaar. The church was built in the 14th century and is a great place to admire the intricate architecture and artwork.
7. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Take a leisurely ride through the streets of the Old Bazaar in a horse-drawn carriage. This is a great way to get a unique view of the city and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bazaar.
8. Visit the Bitola Museum: The Bitola Museum is located in the Old Bazaar and houses a collection of artifacts from the region. The museum is a great place to learn more about the history of Bitola and the surrounding area.
9. Enjoy a Cup of Coffee: The Old Bazaar is home to a number of cafes where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the bazaar and take some time to people-watch and soak up the local culture.
10. Visit the Bitola Fortress: The Bitola Fortress is located on the outskirts of the Old Bazaar and is a great place to explore the city’s history. The fortress was built in the 15th century and is a great place to admire the stunning views of the city.
The Old Bazaar of Bitola is a great place to explore the unique culture and history of the region. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or a cup of coffee, this bustling market has something for everyone.