Macedonian Cities -- Outside Skopje

 

Matka Canyon

Matka Canyon
The canyon of Matka covers an area of around 5,000 hectares and is located 15km southwest of Skopje. The karstic forms make for interesting scenery - 10 caves with lengths ranging between 20 and 176 meters and two vertical chasms with depths of up to 35 meters. Out of around 1,000 types of plants, 20 percent are endemic or relic species. It is also important to mention that there are 77 species of small butterflies endemic to the Balkans in the area of Matka Canyon, while 18 other species are new to the science.

St. Andrew ChurchSt. Andrew Church - Matka
Andrea, the younger son of King Volkasin, built this church in 1388-89. Later additions of the church were built in the 16th century. The fresco paintings are made by well – known painter Metropolitan Jovan and Monk Grigorie. Most distinct are the portraits of the Holy Warriors and the scenes from Christ's Passion.
    

St. Demetrius Church - Markova Susica
St. Demetrius Church
The construction of this one-dome church began in 1346-47. It was started by King Volkasin and completed by his son Marko in 1377. Among the most impressive of the opulent 14th century frescoes are those depicting the massacre of the innocent children of Bethlehem and the image of St. Clement in the Sanctuary.

Holy Archangels Monastery - Kuceviste
This monastery, dedicated to the holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, is located northwest of the village of Kuceviste. The church has a trefoil plan covered by a dome and a facade adorned with terracotta elements. The frescos in the narthex date from 1631, and the church is known for its ecclesiastical furniture in woodcarving with bone inlay.

St. Nikitas MonasterySt. Nikitas Monastery - Gornjane
The monastery, founded in the 11th century, is located on the slopes of Mt. Skopska Crna Gora and is dedicated to the holy warrior Nikitas. Built in the 14th century, the church was later renovated in the 15th, 17th, and 19th centuries.  The well-known artists Michael and Eutychios made the frescoes, which are preserved until today, dating from 1320. The characteristic features of the Paleologan style are especially evident in the cycles of Jesus Christ's Miracles and Passion.

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