Krusevo is a small beautiful mountain town, rich with Macedonian history. Th e town itself rests at an altitude of 1350m (4,400 feet) over sea level, making it the highest town in the Balkans. As a result, Krusevo is also called “The Eagle’s Nest”. This town is like an open museum. Houses are built in that unique Macedonian architecture that is also commonly seen on the streets of Ohrid.
Every year on the 2nd of August, Krusevo proudly celebrates the memory of the 1903 Ilinden Uprising. After a decisive battle, Krusevo held the first Republic within the Balkans after conquering the Ottoman Army on Meckin Kamen(Bear Stone). On this place, Pity Guli’s band(ceta), was fighting with the Turkish troops coming from Bitola. Even if the victory only lasted 10 days, there are still a number of museums and monuments dedicated to this important part of our history. Nikola Karev was the first president of this 10 day Republic. One of the most important points of the uprising was a declaration of the “Manifesto of Krusevo”. It called all the people of Macedonia, regardless of their religion and nationality, to unite together and fight against the Ottoman Empire who had been ruling the Balkans for centuries. After the 10 days of the new found Republic, the Ott omans reclaimed the territory, setting many of the surrounding villages on fire. This year, 2009, was the 100 year anniversary of this first Republic.
The town organized a huge celebration called “Etnograd”(Etno-City) where people in authentic clothing and uniforms were walking around the streets and reliving the events of history. Krusevo is one of the best places in Macedonia for vacation. It’s a picturesque mountain town, surrounded on all sides by beautiful nature. It is peaceful and definitely a good place for a much needed rest. It is also one of Macedonia’s most popular winter sport destinations and in the summer, a great getaway place because of it’s majestic and peaceful pine forests. For all the art lovers, there is a memorial gallery in honor of our most famous Macedonian modern painter, Nikola Martinovksi, who was born here. Visit the Makedonium monument from the Ilinden Uprising, see the St.Nikolas Church, try the lokum and celufki and only then will you have experienced the spirit of Krusevo. It is 3 hours away from the capital, Skopje, and you can conveniently get there by bus or car.
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