Prilep, Regional trading center in Pelagonia, North Macedonia
Prilep is a city in the Pelagonia plain in northern North Macedonia that contains layers of different periods, from ancient structures to a medieval fortress overlooking the settlement. The layout includes commercial zones, residential areas, and smaller neighborhoods that developed as the city grew over time.
The settlement started in 1014 as Prílapos and later became a major trading hub during Ottoman rule, which lasted until 1913. This long period shaped how the city was built and connected to surrounding regions.
Tobacco farming shaped the local economy and remains visible in how people work and organize their year around harvest seasons. The city's role as a crossroads brought diverse influences that you notice in daily practices and local speech patterns.
The location makes it easy to reach other Macedonian cities by road, and you can use it as a base for exploring the region. You will find different places to stay, from simple guesthouses to standard business hotels, depending on what you prefer.
A beer festival held every July attracts crowds interested in local brewing traditions and regional beer styles. The tobacco farming here uses methods passed down through many generations, making it one of the few places where such practices remain active.
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