Kratovo

Kratovo is a Macedonian town that has preserved its ancient character and is situated in a particularly unique location—inside the crater of an ancient volcano, from which it derives its name. Known since antiquity as a mining town, it has abundant iron ore deposits. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years and is rich in prehistoric megalithic sites. The town is built at the meeting point of several narrow canyons that cut through it, with different parts connected by spectacular ancient bridges, adding to its historical and architectural charm.

Inside the old town, there are six preserved medieval towers that were used for defense and for storing precious metals, and they were connected by a network of tunnels. Additionally, the old houses are built using a unique mud construction technique. An hour-long walk through the alleys of Kratovo is a wonderful experience. The stroll can end with a visit to the Center for Ancient Rock Paintings, which holds a unique collection of prehistoric artifacts. At the entrance to the town, two huge 600-year-old pine trees stand as symbols of Kratovo.