Tetovo, Administrative center in Polog region, North Macedonia
Tetovo is a city in northwestern North Macedonia at the foot of the Šar Mountains, where the Pena River flows through. The center gathers around Illyria Square, while residential areas spread across gentle slopes up to the mountain edge.
In the 15th century, the Ottomans took control of the ancient settlement and built mosques, bridges and public baths. After Yugoslavia dissolved, the city became part of the independent Republic of Macedonia in 1991.
The Ottoman old quarter around the bazaar keeps its narrow lanes and old craft houses, while newer districts show wide streets and modern apartment blocks. Two large universities shape daily life, so you see young people everywhere on sidewalks, in cafés and outside lecture halls.
The center sits close to the bus station, so most places are within walking distance. Accommodation can be found around the central square and in nearby streets, often with basic amenities.
The bazaar runs through winding passages with small workshops where coppersmiths, silversmiths and carpet sellers work. Many of these craft businesses have been running for several generations and use traditional methods.
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