Skopje Fortress, Skopje, North Macedonia

The Skopje Fortress, commonly referred to as Kale, is situated on the highest point in the city overlooking the Vardar River. The fortress is depicted on the coat of arms of Skopje, which in turn is incorporated in the city's flag.

The first fortress was built in 6th century AD on a land that was inhabited during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages (roughly 4000 BC onwards). It was constructed with yellow limestone and travertine, along with fragments of Latin inscriptions. Material for the fortress originated from the Roman city of Skupi, which was completely destroyed by an earthquake in 518.

The fortress is thought to have been built during the rule of emperor Justinian I and constructed further during the 10th and 11th centuries over the remains of emperor Justinian's Byzantine fortress which may have been destroyed due to a number of wars and battles in the region. The city was capital of the First Bulgarian Empire between 992 and 1015, and was center of the uprising of the Bulgarian Empire against the Byzantine Empire under the rule of Peter Delyan. Not much is known about the Medieval fortress apart from a few documents which outline minor characteristics in the fortress' appearance.

In 1346 at the Skopje Fortress, Stefan Dušan adopted the title of Emperor at his coronation and he had transferred the capital of Serbian Empire to Skopje.

The fortress was partially destroyed yet again by an earthquake in 1963 but was not reconstructed until recently.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Anna Kelemen (8 months ago)
It is a fortress with a nice view overlooking the city. The entry is free, however the place is not very well maintained, some of the lookout towers are unstable and don't feel safe. It is well worth a visit, but I recommend checking first before climing something.

Jim Harmon (8 months ago)
It's fantastic to be at the fortress which was built in the 6th century. It's history and should be appreciated. You can walk the walls and climb a few of the towers. The fortress moat bridge and tower steps have deteriorated greatly since I was here 4 years ago. It's become overgrown with weeds and trees. The entry is free, but it's a pity the fortress isn't being maintained.

Mustafa Serdar Karakaya (9 months ago)
Free entry which means I should not criticize but I cannot help but say that this place seems abandoned by the authorities. It offers good views of the city from small holes, but a lot more can be done with this fortress and its courtyard. So far shrubs rule the courtyard, and a few dogs patrol the walls in an effort to mark their territory, or perhaps to keep us company. A visit would be worthy but I do hope that they consider more investment into the region in the future.

Nick Pastore (11 months ago)
Interesting spot to explore. Many newer structures have been started on the grounds of the fortress.These structures give it a strange appearance but make it even more interesting to figure out. Following the paths most traveled because some small paths lead to dead ends. Nice view of many parts of the city especially the river walk up close from above. Definitely recommend if you find yourself on this side of Skopje

Michael Mack (12 months ago)
A must visit when in Skopje. It is a nice walk up to the fortress. The views of all of Skopje and the mountains are amazing. This fortress was built by the Romans. Plenty of space to walk around, sit, and enjoy a day out. There are many vantage points from all sides of the city. I really enjoyed walking around the wall and taking in the views.

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