When in Krushevo: Weekend Gateway

During your next trip to Macedonia, our suggestion is for you to visit the town of Krushevo, a perfect weekend getaway destination. You can find this small mountain paradise only 165 km away from the capital of Skopje. It is situated 1.250 meters above sea level, making it the highest town in the Balkans. Krushevo is a mix of nature, tradition, history and culture. Right here you will be surprised by the beauty that is hidden behind every corner.

Krushevo is a small town and almost everything is in a walking distance so you can definitely explore the city by foot. There are around 2.000 people living here so be prepared for everyone to know that you are new in the city, although locals will do their best to help you explore their town.

As we’ve already said, you can find a mix of everything in Krusevo: culture, art, tradition and food. And almost every street, every house and every person has some story to tell. But, let’s start from the beginning.

The name of Krushevo means “the town of the pear”. In the past, when the Vlachs shepherds came to live in this place, they started to settle down around one big pear tree. Thus the town was named Krushevo, or “Town of the Pear”. Krushevo during it’s occupation by Ottoman empire was the only city in Macedonia that paid for their autonomy. Thus it was always considered the best place for merchants to trade, and today you can still see the historical remains from that time.

What can you visit in Krushevo ?

Makedonium – the Ilinden monument –
it has a form of a “mace” and is a symbol of the rebellion, the struggle and the eternal aspiration of the Macedonian people for freedom and an independent state. The monument is divided in four parts, it starts with broken chains, continuing through the crypt and colorful ceramic mosaic of the famous Macedonian artist Petar Mazev and finishing with “the mace”. Inside of the “mace” you can find the tomb of Nikola Karev and the bust of the famous Macedonian singer Toshe Proeski. The entrance door is in form of the letter M like Macedonia.
Memorial house of Toshe Proeski – if you have already traveled around the Balkans, you’ve probably heard this name. Toshe was born right here, in Krushevo and was one of the most famous singers in this region. But he wasn’t only a singer, he was a huge humanitarian and down-to-earthman with a big heart. Unfortunately, he lost his life in a car accident in Croatia when he was only 26 years old. In his memorial house you can find a variety of objects and memories from his life.
Krushevo Lake – the artificial lake is a nice spot to chill out and relax at. It is especially nice in summer, but in winter the view is very unique because the lake freezes over.
Nikola Martinovski Gallery – Nikola Martinovski is considered a founder of contemporary Macedonian art. He was born in Krushevo, and today you can visit his house where there is a nice collection of his artworks. The most famous painting is “The mother with child”. In the gallery you will also have the chance to observe the look of a traditional house in Krushevo. You can see the rooms as well as how they were arranged and used in the past.
Panoramic view – There are lot of panoramic spots in the town. Krushevo is unique because you can have a panoramic view from everywhere. When you are down in the city center, you have a nice view of the whole hill. When you are up on the hill, you will have another view over the city. Krushevo truly looks like a postcard with the unique architecture and houses all around the hill. Yet, the best panoramic views are probably from The Ilinden Monument and from the balcony of Hotel Montana Palace. Make sure to visit this hotel and you’ll be treated to coffee with the best view of the city – especially if there’s snow.
Churches – there are four churches in the city, but you must visit at least the main church of St. Nikola, which is the oldest church in Krushevo and is situated in the old part of the city. The church is also famous for the iconostasis inside that was made from the best wood artists of that time. The other church that you can visit is the Vlach church of St. John.
A walk through the city – maybe in the end this is the most beautiful part of Krushevo. Just walk around and get lost between the narrow streets. Between the shops where the time stopped years ago and between the houses with a unique architecture. Walking down you will meet people who can tell you stories, who will complain or explain the current situation of the city. When you get tired you can just sit down in one of the few bars and restaurants and taste some traditional food.
Written and photographed by Elena Mitkovska

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