Astounding Ancient Ruins

Despite being no larger than Vermont, North Macedonia is a genuine treasure mine of ancient archaeological monuments. The country is home to some of Europe's best preserved Greek and Roman antiquities, as well as Neolithic village ruins, ancient strongholds, and one of the world's oldest observatories - Kokino, dubbed the "Stonehenge of North Macedonia" and currently on UNESCO's tentative World Heritage list.

Among the country's historic highlights is Stobi, which many consider to be the most important archaeological site in North Macedonia. Stobi, originally a vital economic hub of the ancient Paionian kingdom, was founded at the intersection of the trade routes Via Egnatia, Via Axia, and Via Diagonale. A Roman amphitheater, numerous large churches with exquisite mosaics and masonry, and a synagogue dating from the third to fourth centuries BC are among the ruins.

The historic Hellenic city of Heraclea Lyncestis, founded by Philip II of Macedon in the middle of the 4th century BC, is another major site in North Macedonia. Heraclea, conquered by the Romans in the second century BC, was an important halt on the Via Egnatia and a lively commercial hub until its destruction in the sixth century. Several Roman monuments, including baths and an amphitheater, still stand here. Don't miss the stunning Byzantine basilicas, which are lavishly decorated with mosaics of local vegetation and animals.