Struga, located in the southwestern part of North Macedonia, is a picturesque town situated on the banks of Lake Ohrid. A major tourist destination, Struga is renowned for its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and historical monuments. Struga is a great place to explore the natural beauty of the region, as well as its rich history. Here are the top 20 places to see in Struga, North Macedonia.
1. Lake Ohrid – One of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, Lake Ohrid is a stunning natural wonder. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain peaks make it a great spot for swimming, fishing, and other recreational activities. The lake is also home to several species of fish, including the Ohrid trout, which is endemic to the lake.
2. Marko’s Tower – This iconic tower is located in the center of Struga and is a symbol of the city. It was built in the 15th century to commemorate the victory of the local ruler, Marko, over the Ottoman Empire. Today, it stands as a reminder of the city’s history and is a popular tourist attraction.
3. St. Sophia Church – This impressive church is one of the oldest in the region and dates back to the 5th century. It was built in the Byzantine style and features frescoes from the 11th and 12th centuries. The church is a great place to learn about the history of the region and admire its stunning architecture.
4. Struga Cultural Center – This cultural center houses a variety of exhibitions, performances, and events. It is a great place to explore the culture and traditions of the region. The center also hosts a number of workshops and classes in music, art, and other topics.
5. Monastery of St. Naum – This monastery is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid and is a popular tourist destination. It was founded in the 10th century by the monk St. Naum and features several beautiful frescoes from the 14th century. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves and the nearby springs.
6. Bay of Bones Museum – This open-air museum is located on the shore of Lake Ohrid and is dedicated to the region’s history. The museum is home to several reconstructed dwellings from the Bronze Age and features various artifacts from the period.
7. Plaoshnik – This archaeological site is located on the outskirts of Struga and is home to several ancient ruins. It was once an important religious center and is believed to have been the birthplace of the famous Macedonian ruler, Alexander the Great.
8. Mosa Pijade Memorial Park – This park is dedicated to the memory of the Yugoslavian revolutionary Mosa Pijade. It features several sculptures and monuments that commemorate his life and legacy.
9. Struga Old Town – This historic district is a great place to explore the city’s past. It is home to several old churches and traditional houses, as well as a number of shops and restaurants.
10. Galichica National Park – This national park is located on the shores of Lake Ohrid and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is a great spot for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
11. Church of St. John the Baptist – This church was built in the 6th century and is one of the oldest in the region. It features several frescoes from the 11th century and is a great place to learn about the history of the area.
12. Struga Ethnological Museum – This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the region. It features a variety of artifacts and exhibits, including traditional clothing, tools, and furniture.
13. Church of St. George – This church is located in the center of Struga and is one of the oldest in the city. It was originally built in the 13th century and features several stunning frescoes from the 16th century.
14. Struga Fortress – This impressive fortress is located on the banks of Lake Ohrid and was once used as a defense against the Ottoman Empire. Today, it serves as a reminder of the city’s history and is a popular tourist destination.
15. St. John the Baptist Monastery – This monastery is located on the outskirts of Struga and is home to several stunning frescoes from the 14th century. It is a great place to explore the history and culture of the region.
16. Church of St. Elijah – This church is located in the center of Struga and is one of the oldest in the city. It was originally built in the 13th century and features several stunning frescoes from the 16th century.
17. St. Nicholas Church – This church is located in the center of Struga and was built in the 16th century. It features several stunning frescoes from the 17th century and is a great place to learn about the history of the region.
18. Museum of Natural History – This museum houses a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to the natural history of the region. It is a great place to explore the flora and fauna of the area.
19. Bridge of Art – This bridge is located in the center of Struga and is home to several sculptures and monuments. It is a great place to explore the city’s art and culture.
20. Struga Old Bazaar – This bazaar is located in the center of Struga and is home to several shops and restaurants. It is a great place to explore the city’s vibrant culture and buy souvenirs.