Ohrid: The Pearl of Macedonia
If you ever find yourself in the heartland of the Balkans, there decidedly exists one location you couldn’t afford to miss, Ohrid, the Pearl of Macedonia. Known as one of the most ancient human settlements in all of Europe, Ohrid boasts a unique mishmash of rich natural and cultural history.
Unravelling the Tapestry of Time in Ohrid
Ohrid, seated on an unspoiled lake's shore, tells a story of tranquil beauty contrasted by its vibrant history. It nestled between high mountains up to 2.800 meters and Lake Ohrid, precisely one of Europe's deepest and oldest lakes, offering a delightful tableau captured in the Balkan canvas. You can see its location via Google Maps.
The city's fame, however, doesn’t merely rely on its earthly beauty. Ohrid, which once had 365 churches—one for each day of the year—has been aptly dubbed the 'Jerusalem of the Balkans'. While not many of these churches have endured the test of time, the sublime artistry exhibited in the ones still standing is a treasurable testament of Byzantine architecture.
Romancing History Echoing Across Ohrid
While strolling across the cobblestone streets of Ohrid, one cannot ignore the palpable vestiges of the past whispering tales of the Old Town. Ohrid's Old Town, preserved immaculately as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is as mesmerizing in the daylight as it is under the starlit sky. And then, there’s the striking 9th-century Church of St. John at Kaneo, unarguably one of Ohrid’s most recognizable historical landmarks.
Exploring the Storied Lake Ohrid
The city has an impressive history, but Lake Ohrid is no underdog either. The lake, spanning across an area of about 350 million square kilometers, is one of Europe's oldest, deepest, and most biodiverse lakes. Home to over 200 endemic species, some of which have inhabited Lake Ohrid since the Tertiary period, this lake has been aptly acknowledged by mankind as a biological reserve of global importance.
Adventure and nature enthusiasts will certainly relish the opportunity to partake in various water sports, boating tours, and bird watching activities. A boat tour to the National park Galicica, especially, is a must-try for anyone visiting Ohrid.
Experience Ohrid With Cityplanet
Given the sheer extent of historic and natural beauty Ohrid has to offer, it can become a bit overwhelming for tourists visiting for the first time. Therefore, to make the most out of your visit, it's recommended to sign up for guided tours offered by a local tour agency such as Cityplanet. The guides from Cityplanet, with their deep knowledge of Ohrid’s history and their infectious love for the city, ensure you don’t miss out on any key attractions.
Cityplanet offers a variety of excursions in Ohrid tailored to suit all kinds of travelers. Whether you're a history buff wanting to dive deep into Ohrid’s past or a nature enthusiast looking to explore Lake Ohrid, Cityplanet has got you covered!
Choosing the Best Excursions in Macedonia With Cityplanet
Macedonia, being a country steeped in rich history with countless cultural sites, is a treat to explore. However, given its vast number of attractions, it's crucial to find a trusted tour organization that can provide the best and worthwhile experiences. With its excellent reviews and a wide range of excursion options, Cityplanet provides an unbeatable way of truly immersing yourself in what Macedonia has to offer.
Ohrid, the Pearl of Macedonia, exudes an irresistible allure that draws in every wanderer who steps foot in its idyllic landscape. Whether you're yearning for an enchanting historical voyage or craving the serenity of nature’s magnificence, Ohrid extends a warm invitation to all. Make certain to sketch in Cityplanet for a guided exploration to genuinely absorb every bit of Ohrid’s charm!