North Macedonia

Skopje is the capital and largest city of North Macedonia, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center. Straddling the Vardar River, it hosts the country’s parliament and government institutions and is known for landmarks like the Stone Bridge and Kale Fortress. Much of Skopje was rebuilt after a devastating 1963 earthquake, and it’s also the birthplace of Mother Teresa. To remember it, think “scope” in Skopje—keep the capital in your scope. The other options are major cities but not capitals: Ohrid is a UNESCO-listed lakeside town famed for its ancient churches, Bitola is a historic commercial center, and Tetovo is known for its colorful Painted Mosque.