Veles

Veles has always been an important city for Macedonian culture and heritage, with several notable writers, artists and revolutionaries like Koco Racin, Rajko Zinzifov, Kole Nedelkovski and Petre Prlicko originating from the city or the surrounding area.

some_text
Vardar river flowing in the middle of Veles (photo by: Vesna Markovska)

Throughout the city there are memorial houses of these great citizens of which most important is the memorial house of Koco Racin. A traditional Macedonian home with a stone foundation and a white facade at the top, inside it has a large collection of memorabilia from the life of the great poet. In his honor there is also the cultural manifestation called Racin's Meetings that attracts international poets to celebrate the work and life of the founder of Macedonian contemporary poetry check out our events calendar to see when is it on.

some_text
Memorial House of Koco Racin (photo by: City of Veles)

Besides the memorial house of Koco Racin the city is full with traditionally built homes of which some belong to other historically significant people, out of which the complex Varnalii with several traditional houses stands out the most. We recommend exploring the city on foot, to best experience the architecture and the city's small winding roads which carve the Veles hills. 

some_text
Varnalii Complex (photo by: City of Veles)

Veles is also home to the amazing monument called Kosturnica which was built in 1979 to commemorate the struggles of the Macedonian people and is an eternal home of around a hundred of Veles citizens that gave their lives during the second World War. The monument has a five part art painting on the walls representing the Macedonian desire for freedom and the battle the nation fought to gain it.

Not so far from Veles is the famous holiday spot of Velesko Lake also known as Lake Mladost. This holiday hotspot is very popular during the warmer periods of the year and is often used for picnics, gatherings, barbeque and even fishing.

The archeological dig of Stobi is also seen as an attraction of Veles. Stobi is the largest and together with Heraclea the most important archaeological dig in the country. The first mentioning of this ancient city is found in a text that states that in 197 BC Stobi was conquered by Philip V of Macedon and has been added to the Macedonian kingdom. However it is well known that the city has existed many years prior to that event. The ideal geographical position provided a chance for improving trade and soon Stobi became the main spot for salt trading and with that it increased its influence in the region. Throughout the centuries this city has served as an important centre for cultural and religious events.

some_text
Stobi (photo by: Prince Roy)

A must see at this archaeological site are the numerous preserved mosaics which will leave you mesmerized by the craftsmanship of the ancient peoples,  as well as the many structures that have been uncovered and restored, each one with its own story to tell.some_text
Stobi Mosaic (photo by: Dave Proffer)

Every year, amongst centuries of history , the ancient amphitheater hosts the International Festival of Ancient Drama  which attracts a large number of visitors. Make sure you check our event calendar it's a mustn't miss event.

Stobi is located right next to the highway and it's a must see destination regardless of whether you are a transit guest, a tourist, an expat or a local.