At the Bottom of the Volcano

Kratovo is located in the northeastern part of Macedonia. It is one of the oldest towns in the country; and still pulsing with life. The rivers Maceva, Baba Karina and Tabichka converge into one. And from the Kratovo River. This recreational river divides the town on two sides; left and right. It also has many bridges on it to connect those sides.

Nevertheless, when you travel here, it is a town with a typical traditional Macedonian architecture and history. A town with the most bridges and towers in the whole country. Precisely these components give a distinctive, personal touch to this beautiful town’s society. As well as make it different from the rest in Macedonia. When there; you don’t get the feeling of already seen and felt. It’s a place where you experience the whole story for the first time.

Kratovo is considered as one of the oldest settlements in Macedonia

With that said; it lies on the western slopes of the Osogovo Mountains. At the bottom of an extinguished volcanic crater; however, it is mentioned under the name Kratiskara; in roman times. Along with Koritos; in the byzantine period. It was a significant mining and trading center in the middle ages. Therefore; the Ragusans had their own trading colony and organizations in the town.

In addition, the mines in Kratovo were rich with lead, silver, gold, copper and iron. During the Ottoman rule in the 16^th and 17^th century; the town was famous for forging silver coins. That was one of their issues. After the Austro-Turkish war of 1689; as well as the Karposh Uprising; the mines were closed. Also, the town’s society was left ravaged. Consequently Kratovo revived into a small settlement; as it is today.

Town of Bridges in Kratovo

However, there are 17 bridges in the town; although not every one of the still functions today. Тhey are built from smooth carved stones; and shaped in the form of a bow. Also, these bridges are mainly erected over deep and steep river banks; and can be seen from one another. The most famous is the Radin Bridge. But the others are captivating as well. You have just read a few more issues about this town.

The Legend of Radin Bridge

As a matter of fact; there is a poignant story about this bridge; that makes it the most famous among others. It tells the tale of a girl; called Rada. That was being immured alive into the bridge. According to the story; nine brothers were building this bridge. But it kept destroying itself. To strengthen and solidify it; they decided to put their youngest bride into it.

Nonetheless, she was apparently devastated. This was because she had a baby boy. She begged them to leave one of her breast accessible; so she could feed her child. Not to mention, this bridge is on the river Manceva. Built in 1833 its left tower is 28 meters high. Along with the right one; which is 29 meters high.

Seventeen Towers in Kratovo

Twelve towers are located on the left side of Kratovo; as well as five on its right side. At the moment, only six of these towers are as they were. The rest of them are in a very bad shape. The Zlatko’s tower is the oldest and the richest one. Built in 1365 got its name from its owner. It is six meters high; as well as its walls, which are made of thick stone. Having three floors; you can enter this tower by stairclimbers; if you ever decide to travel and explore here. These towers and bridges are the beauty of Kratovo society.

The Simike’s Tower

This tower is the most important; most beautiful and highest in the whole entire society of Kratovo. This one was all over the media industry. Constructed in 1370 from the Kratovo’s ruler at the time; Constantine Dejanov. In the inner part it is divided into floors; of which the fourth one is the most impressive. From there you can have a beautiful view on the town. The top floors are reachable by stone stairs; that are located on the south wall. These 69 stair steps are illuminated; by three wall holes.

Whether you go for a full tour of the town, or just wander its streets; there is a lot to be observed. Eventually, the old architecture will take the most of your day. Although, there are many places in this society where you can sit back and relax. There is no way you could miss the few cafes. As well as restaurants. They also have some organizations you can join too sometimes. Decorated in the town’s theme; they just complete the picture. As well as the general impression of the authentic beauty of this city. Everybody needs to travel here, at least once.

 

Click here to forward on to the next page about Doctor Numenius of Heraclea.