Bay of Bones
In prehistoric times Lake Ohrid was home to a settlement of pile dwellers who lived literally on top of the water, on a platform supported by up to 10,000 wooden piles anchored to the lake bed.
The remains of the settlement were discovered at this spot and were gradually excavated by an underwater team between 1997 and 2005; the museum is an elaborate reconstruction of the settlement as archaeologists think it would have looked between 1200 and 600 BC.
Samuel’s Fortress
Ohrid’s most dominant landmark is the mighty fortress that sits on the hilltops over the old town. Known as Samuel’s Fortress after the Tsar Samuel.
Thanks to renovations in 2003, visitors are able to visit the fortress and climb up the steep stairs to walk along its ramparts. The views from the fortress are tough to beat as you can see all of the old town and look out at the lake in both directions.
St. Jovan of Kaneo
St. Jovan of Kaneo was founded at the end of the 13th century and dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Its scenic location and distinctive Byzantine-style architecture make it one of the most photographed places in Macedonia – from Lake Ohrid and from the shore.
St. Jovan of Kaneo Monastery sits perched on a cliff just above the fishing village of Kaneo, overlooking the placid waters of Lake Ohrid. It has become the symbol of Ohrid.
St. Clement Church (Plaošnik)
The St. Clement Church is located on Plaošnik Hill in Ohrid. Originally constructed in the 13th century and known as the St. Panteleimon Church.
It was converted into a mosque in the 15th century during the Ottoman period before being reconstructed in the 16th century and turned back into a church. A visit to St. Clement Church will reveal medieval frescos and early Christian mosaics.
Ancient Theatre of Ohrid
Near the Center of Ohrid is the Ancient Theatre – an open-air Hellenistic-style theatre that was built around 200 B.C. with a capacity of 4,000 spectators. During Roman times it was used for gladiatorial battles for executing Christians, leading to its abandonment after the fall of the Roman Empire.
It was eventually unearthed and used for public shows. Most notably, it is used as a stage during the annual Ohrid Summer Festival. Admission to the theatre is free.
National Park Galičica
National Park Galičica is a mountain that separates Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. Its pristine setting is what attracts hikers, birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to come and enjoy the breathtaking views.
The air is crisp and clean, and from certain vantage points you’ll get stunning panoramic views of both Ohrid and Prespa lakes, and surrounding towns.
