Geography

North Macedonia covers an area of 25,713 square kilometers (9,928 sq mi) and has a predominantly mountainous terrain. The highest peak is Mount Golem Korab, reaching 2,764 meters (9,068 ft) above sea level. The country is divided into eight statistical regions: Skopje, Polog, Pelagonia, South-East, South-West, Vardar, North-East, and North-West. Several rivers flow through North Macedonia, the most important being the Vardar River. The country is also home to Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity and crystal-clear waters.

Population

North Macedonia has a population of approximately 2.1 million people. The majority of the population (64.7%) is Macedonian, followed by Albanians (25.2%), Turks (3.8%), Roma (2.7%), Serbs (2.0%), and Bosniaks (0.5%). The official language is Macedonian, a South Slavic language. Other languages spoken include Albanian, Turkish, Romani, and Serbian. The capital and largest city is Skopje, with a population of over 500,000.

Culture

North Macedonia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by various civilizations throughout history. The country has a strong tradition of music, dance, and folklore. The Macedonian folk songs and dances are known for their unique rhythms and melodies. The country also boasts a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with traditional embroidery, pottery, and woodcarving being popular crafts.

North Macedonia is home to numerous historical and cultural sites, including:

• Lake Ohrid: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and historical significance.
• Skopje Fortress: A historic fortress overlooking the city of Skopje, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
• Saint Naum Monastery: A historic monastery located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, renowned for its beautiful architecture and picturesque setting.
• The Matka Canyon: A stunning canyon with numerous caves, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
• The Church of St. Jovan Kaneo: A historic church located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, famous for its beautiful frescoes and stunning location.

Economy

North Macedonia is a developing country with a mixed economy. The country's economy is largely based on agriculture, services, and manufacturing. Agriculture accounts for a significant portion of the workforce, while services play a crucial role in the country's economic growth. North Macedonia is also known for its production of textiles, food products, and construction materials.

History

North Macedonia has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. The territory was inhabited by various civilizations, including the ancient Macedonians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. In 1944, North Macedonia became a republic within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. After the break-up of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, North Macedonia declared its independence in 1991. The country faced challenges in the years following its independence, including a name dispute with Greece, which was finally resolved in 2019 with the adoption of the official name "Republic of North Macedonia".

Major Landmarks

North Macedonia is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, attracting visitors from around the world. Some of the most notable landmarks include:

• Skopje Fortress: A historic fortress overlooking the city of Skopje, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's rich past.
• Mother Teresa Memorial House: A museum dedicated to the life and work of Mother Teresa, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who was born in Skopje.
• The Stone Bridge: A historic bridge spanning the Vardar River in Skopje, dating back to the Ottoman period.
• Lake Ohrid: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, and historical significance.
• Saint Naum Monastery: A historic monastery located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, renowned for its beautiful architecture and picturesque setting.
• The Matka Canyon: A stunning canyon with numerous caves, offering opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
• The Church of St. Jovan Kaneo: A historic church located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, famous for its beautiful frescoes and stunning location.