The capital of North Macedonia.

It, like much of the area, was under Ottoman control for about 500 years. Isa-Beg Isaković was a Bosnian general. His brother sent him to the Ottomans as a sign of loyalty. He proved loyal as well and was appointed as a general and ruled the area.

Mother Theresa was the most famous resident.

Nav:

The city starts level near the river but slopes up sharply as you approach the older part of the city.

Kale Castle. The walls and tower are about all that remain intact.
Stone Bridge. An icon of the city featured on the city’s flag.
A statue of Alexander III of Macedon, aka Alexander The Great
A statue of Mother Theresa, outside what was the church where she was baptized, now a museum
Shops sprawl out from the Old Bazaar area.
Church of the Ascension of Jesus, built in the 16th century. Beautifully painted interior but no photos are allowed.
Kapan Han. It’s an inn built by Isa-Beg Isaković to ensure he had a source of income.
The Macedonian National Theatre and other grand buildings line the riverside.

Nosh:

Turkish food is prevalent in the Balkans, due to centuries of occupation. Italian is the most exported cuisine in the world, so you’ll find that here too.

The kebab plate and pizza at Amigos

Nip:

Old School Rock Bar is a cool place that seems like a residential hang out. A fun and funky joint that doesn’t have draft beer but plays classic tunes everyone knows.

Craft Brewery is good way to reward yourself after climbing the city streets. They have food whenever the cook arrives. We were told it was ‘cash only’.

Old School Rock Bar
Raft Brewery
Pilsner and IPA