|
|
 Lake
Ohrid is a beautiful picturesque fresh-water lake of about 350 square kilometres,
located near the South-western border with Albania. It is surrounded by
mountains rising to peaks of almost 2000 meters and is well renowned for
its crystal clear water, which is visible down to 22 meters, of a total
maximum depth of 286 meters.
The city of Ohrid, which is located right next to the
lake, was the cradle to Slavic Christianity and education in the 10th Century
A.D. Modern day Ohrid, now plays host to its many visitors wanting to enjoy
the fabulous features of this fine Macedonian tourist destination.
Lake Ohrid is a breath-taking sight for first timers,
who start to wonder whether the sea of blue water even ends, as the lake
disappears in the haze.
Ohrid offers many other attractions to the visitor. There
is the famous ruins of Tsar Samuel's fortress, which crowns a hill over-looking
the lake, that dates back to the 10th Century A.D. There is also the National
Museum and Icon Gallery, which have a wide range if Roman artefacts and
paintings.
You may, of course want to mix a bit of arts and religion
(for which Ohrid is very famous for) in which case you can visit the many
churches surrounding the city and lake.
 Churches
Saint Kliment and Saint Sofia, have some of the best fresco paintings in
religious circles, some dating back to the 11th Century.
Probably the most famous of all the old churches in Ohrid
and Macedonia is Saint Naum, constructed in the 10th Century. It is located
about 30 kilometres north of the city of Ohrid, at the end of the road
Naum Ohridski. Upon arrival, it is an uphill walk on a stone path, which
almost sends you back 1000 years, with a medieval shiver going down your
spine. Once having reached the church, you are captivated by a spectacular
view of the lake, and also the buoys representing the border of Albania
and Macedonia (just in case you thought it was all ours).
Evening in Ohrid are very much similar to other tourist
destinations in Europe, where people congregate together around the city
"Corzo" (meeting place).
Lit up and buzzing at a relaxing pace, the corzo provides a romantic carnival
type atmosphere, where excitement just in the air for all the young at
heart. You can go to a disco, or take part in traditional Macedonian open-air
dancing.
If on the other hand your appetite needs satisfying try
one of the famous Ohrid trout (Pastrmka in the local tongue) at one of
the many restaurants. It is a rare species of fish, which can only be found
in Ohrid and some parts of Russia. Try it together with one of the local
beers, such as a "Skopsko or Bitolsko pivo".
Ohrid and its lake stand unique in the balance achieved
between its medieval past, arts and architecture, and how they have been
translated to provide modern-day pleasures. The Macedonian people should
be congratulated for achieving this traditional and every person who gets
the opportunity to enjoy its features, will appreciate it for sure.
| Back |
|
