Sublime Ohrid is Macedonia's prime destination, with its atmospheric old quarter with beautiful churches along a graceful hill, topped by a medieval castle overlooking serene, 34km-long Lake Ohrid. It's undoubtedly Macedonia's most alluring attraction, especially when you factor in the nearby Galičica National Park and the further secluded beaches that dot the lake's eastern shore.
Church of Sveti Jovan at KaneoCHURCH
This stunning 13th-century church is set on a cliff over the lake, and is possibly Macedonia's most photographed structure. Peer down into the azure waters and you'll see why medieval monks found spiritual inspiration here. The small church has original frescoes behind the altar.
Church of Sveta Bogorodica PerivleptaCHURCH
Just inside the Gorna Porta, this 13th-century Byzantine church, whose name translates as 'Our Lady the Most Glorious', has vivid biblical frescoes painted by Serbian masters Mihail and Eutihije and superb lake and old town views from its terrace. There's also an icon gallery highlighting the founders' artistic achievements.
Classical AmphitheatreAMPHITHEATRE
Ohrid's impressive amphitheatre was built for theatre; the Romans later removed 10 rows to accommodate gladiators.
Car Samoil's CastleCASTLE
The massive, turreted walls of the 10th-century castle indicate the power of the medieval Bulgarian state. Ascend the stairways to the ramparts for fantastic views over the town and lake.
PlaošnikCHURCH
Down a wooded path, Plaošnik boasts the Church of Sveti Kliment i Pantelejmon. This 5th-century basilica was restored in 2002 according to its Byzantine design. The multidomed church has glass floor segments revealing the original foundations. It houses St Kliment's relics, with intricate 5th-century mosaics outside.
Sveta Sofija CathedralCHURCH
Ohrid's grandest church, 11th-century Sveta Sofija, is supported by columns and decorated with elaborate, if very faded Byzantine frescoes, though they are well preserved and very vivid in the apse, still. Its superb acoustics means it's often used for concerts (300MKD). The exposed beams reveal the very real achievment constructing a church this size would have been in the 11th century.
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