Go on a Day Trip to Skopje
We took a day trip to Skopje, North Macedonia from Pristina, Kosovo. It was the last stop of our Balkins Tour. At first glance, the city of Skopje is a beautiful renovated masterpiece with large antiquated buildings and statues all over downtown. Then we learned it’s all new construction made to look old, a facade of ancient history. It’s a spectacle to bring in tourists, and while it wondrous to walk through, I’d equate the 5-year old aesthetic to Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. Some call it Historicism Kitsch, recreating historic styles in a tacky way.
We took a free walking tour of the city and learned about this small country that became independent in 1991. In recent history, it was one of the successor states of Yugoslavia. In very recent history (2019), it changed it’s name from Macedonia to North Macedonia in order to appease Greece as they attempt to try and take steps to becoming part of the European Union. Why would they do this? Because Alexander the Great was Macedonian, and Macedonia is technically a large region that is also part of Greece. Basically Greece wants claim to that part of history. North Macedonia also changed it’s airport’s name from Alexander the Great to simply “Skopje International Airport.” All interesting politics. Go on the tour if you’re into history and learning about the Balkins. It was incredibly informative!
Brzanov Winery
Our friend took us to Brzanov Winery for an evening wine-tasting with Antionio the owner. It was a very authentic experience, gathering with a small group in the winery among the barrels to taste North Macedonian wines. The wines here aren’t as mass-produced as they are back in the U.S., so each batch can taste quite different from year to year. Most batches are a product of the personal taste of Antonio himself. I personally really enjoyed everything he poured. The more we tasted the more we enjoyed the flavors. ;) Book a tour for this winery when visiting Skopje.
I left Skopje wishing we had more time to explore this fascinating country.
