Skopje, Macedonia

I've learned so much through postcrossing. It's such a fun way of learning about different countries and cultures (and other random things, too :D). For instance, I didn't really know anything about Macedonia before postcrossing. I still know very little, but that's still better than nothing. :)



This card came from a swap with Anja in Macedonia. The postcards I chose all turned out to be of the Old Bazaar of Skopje, but it IS a very beautiful-looking place so I don't mind.

The Old Bazaar is one of the largest bazaars in the Balkans and the largest in Macedonia. Situated on the eastern bank of the Vardar River, the bazaar had been the city's centre for trade and commerce since at least the 12th century. It rapidly grew and reached its peak during Ottoman rule, evidenced by over 30 mosques, several caravanserais, and other Turkish buildings and monuments. The commerce hub of Skopje has since become Centar Municipality, just across the river. Although Islamic architecture is predominant in the bazaar, there are several churches as well.

I love the architecture there, it looks so charming, and it looks like such a great mix of east and west. That, plus I'd love to wander around these narrow lanes and explore the shops. :)



I couldn't find any info about the stamp so I just know it was issued in 2000. Anja says that the brooch is an example of the things you can find in the Old Bazaar. EDIT: Ana gave me some more info :) It's a "Cultural Heritage" stamp from 2000, from a set of 4 stamps. It represents a brooch from the 19th/20th century from the city of Bitola.