Gostivar Old Bazaar: 10 Things to Do in Macedonia’s Most Quaint Marketplace
Nestled in the foothills of the Shar Mountain range in Macedonia, Gostivar Old Bazaar is a charming and vibrant marketplace that has been a center of commerce since the 15th century. The bazaar is a perfect place to explore Macedonian culture and to find unique souvenirs and gifts. Here are 10 things to do in Gostivar Old Bazaar.
1. Explore the Shops
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is filled with small shops selling everything from traditional Macedonian clothing to handmade jewelry and crafts. There are also many shops selling souvenirs and gifts such as handmade wooden boxes, traditional pottery, and colorful rugs.
2. Visit the Mosque
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is home to the 15th century Gostivar Mosque. The mosque is a beautiful example of Ottoman-era architecture and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Macedonia.
3. Taste the Local Cuisine
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is home to a number of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Macedonian cuisine. Try some of the local specialties such as burek (a savory pastry filled with cheese or meat), sarma (a cabbage roll filled with rice and ground beef), and tarator (a cold soup made with cucumber, yogurt, and garlic).
4. Enjoy the Music
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is known for its vibrant nightlife and music. There are a number of bars and restaurants that feature live music, from traditional Macedonian folk music to more modern genres.
5. Visit the Museum
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is home to the Gostivar Museum of History and Culture, which houses a collection of artifacts and documents related to the history of Macedonia. The museum is a great place to learn about the region’s past and its culture.
6. Hike the Trails
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is surrounded by mountains and forests, making it a great place to go hiking. There are a number of trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
7. Go Fishing
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is located near the Crn Drim River, which is a great place to go fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish, including trout, carp, and catfish.
8. Visit the Monasteries
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is close to a number of monasteries, including the St. Nicholas Monastery and the St. John the Baptist Monastery. The monasteries are great places to explore the religious history of the region.
9. Explore the Caves
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is located near a number of caves, including the Brvenica Cave, which is the second-largest cave in Macedonia. The caves are a great place to explore and to learn about the geological history of the region.
10. Enjoy the Views
The Gostivar Old Bazaar is surrounded by stunning views of the Shar Mountain range. Take some time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Gostivar Old Bazaar is a great place to explore Macedonian culture and to find unique souvenirs and gifts. From exploring the shops and visiting the mosque to tasting the local cuisine and enjoying the views, there is something for everyone in this quaint marketplace.