Cultural
Bitola City Tour
Bitola
Duration: Approx. Half DayThe tour of Bitola starts with a visit the ancient city of Heraclea Lincestis, the best preserved ancient city in Macedonia. Built in the 4th century BC by Philip II of Macedonia (father of Alexander the Great), it was conquered by the Romans 2 centuries latter. The Via Egnatia road passed through this city, it was the main road connecting the Roman Empire with Asia. Heraclea Lincestis is famous for its beautiful mosaics, antique theater and roman baths. First excavations were undertaken here after WW1, and then was discovered the beauty and importance of this ancient city – the Roman baths, Episcope basilica, Synagogue, portico, Roman theater – in which in modern times plays and music concerts are held. The tour goes on to city of Bitola, city which vibrates in Renaissance style in architecture. The reason for this is that Bitola, was a center of international diplomacy during the times of the Ottoman empire. The city was then called “city of consuls”. The elegance of those times is felt even today can be seen in the faded facades of the buildings in the main street – Shirok Sokak – which is bustling with cafes, restaurants and shops. What follows is a visit of Bitola’s museum. Also, we will visit the church of St. Dimitrija, where we can see fine example of wood carved iconostasis, work of the masters from the Mijak school of woodcarvers. Visit of the Turkish bazaar, Isak Pasha mosque, visit of the place where first movie theater was (opened by brothers Manaki – who have first filmed the life in Macedonia during the Ottoman times. Free time for individual exploration of the city. Tour includes: |
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