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Macedonia Travel Guide
Key Facts
Geography
Area:
25,713 sq km (9,928 sq miles).
The former Yugoslav republic of 'Macedonia' is only one of three areas of the historical region of 'Macedonia', which includes Pirin Macedonia (Bulgaria) and Aegean Macedonia (Greece), with a total area of 66,600 sq km (25,700 sq miles), most of which is in Greece. In deference to Greek sensibilities, the United Nations and other international organisations have formally recognised Macedonia under the interim name of 'The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia'; however this is gradually reverting to 'The Republic of Macedonia'. In 2004, the US began using its constitutional name but negotiations with Greece to resolve the name issue continue.
Population:
2,055,915 (CIA estimate 2007).
Population density:
80 per sq km.
Capital:
Skopje. Population: 450,000 (UN estimate 2003).
Republic since 1991. Gained independence from Yugoslavia (now Serbia and Montenegro) in 1991.
Head of state:
President Gjorge Ivanov since 2009.
Head of government:
Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski since 2006.
Electricity:
220 volts AC, 50Hz.
Macedonia is a mountainous land in the heart of the Balkans, sprinkled with beautiful valleys and lakes. It has a rich Hellenic heritage.
The capital, Skopje, has many delights, including Kale Fortress, dating from the 10th century with its views over the capital, and the sixth-century Stone Bridge. Shop in the Old Bazaar (the largest in the Balkans), or revel in one of the many lively bars. Macedonia’s many churches and mosques, contain fine examples of art and architecture from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
Macedonia is blessed with outstanding natural beauty. Do not miss a trip to one of the large lakes, Pelister Mountains, Shar Planina in the West, and the fascinating rolling hills and mountains of the East with its rice fields. Ohrid, one of the oldest towns in Europe (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), nestles serenely on the shores of the lake of the same name and is the perfect place for a quiet retreat.
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